Spurs Drop Werner and Forster as New Signings Tel and Danso Step In for Knockout Stage
Tottenham Hotspur have made significant changes to their UEFA Europa League squad ahead of the knockout stages, dropping three players less than 24 hours after a crushing 4-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-final.
The North London club, who were outclassed at Anfield on Thursday night, have reportedly left out striker Timo Werner, goalkeeper Fraser Forster, and injured defender Radu Dragusin from their updated Europa League roster. In their place, Spurs have added January signings Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, as well as recalling Djed Spence, who was omitted during the group stage.
The decision comes as Spurs look to regroup following a disappointing performance against Liverpool, which saw their 1-0 first-leg lead evaporate under a dominant display from the Reds. Goals from Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Virgil van Dijk sealed a comprehensive victory for Arne Slot’s side, setting up a Carabao Cup final clash with Newcastle United at Wembley on March 16.
Dragusin’s exclusion from the squad is due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in last week’s match against Elfsborg, which is expected to sideline him for an extended period. Meanwhile, Werner and Forster have fallen out of favor under manager Ange Postecoglou, prompting their removal from the European squad.
According to UEFA regulations, clubs are allowed to make up to three changes to their squad between the group stage and the knockout phase. Tottenham have utilized this rule to bring in fresh faces, with Bayern Munich loanee Mathys Tel and Lens defender Kevin Danso expected to bolster the team’s attacking and defensive options. Djed Spence, who missed out during the league phase, has also been reinstated.
However, the changes mean that fellow January signing Antonin Kinsky, a goalkeeper, will not be eligible for selection in the Europa League. First-choice stopper Guglielmo Vicario is reportedly fit and ready to feature in the round of 16, where Spurs will face one of Real Sociedad, Galatasaray, AZ Alkmaar, or Midtjylland for a place in the quarterfinals.
Postecoglou’s side will now turn their attention to the FA Cup, where they face a tough test against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon. The match offers Spurs a chance to bounce back from their midweek disappointment and keep their hopes of silverware alive in a different competition.
As Tottenham prepare for the Europa League knockout stages, the squad reshuffle reflects Postecoglou’s determination to adapt and strengthen his team for the challenges ahead. With new signings integrated and key players returning, Spurs will be hoping to make a deep run in Europe while maintaining their push for domestic success.
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