Ange Postecoglou eyes consistency as Tottenham Hotspur defenders near return
What's the story
Tottenham Hotspur manager, Ange Postecoglou, has expressed optimism over the return of defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
The duo has been sidelined with thigh injuries but are expected to make their return in the Premier League match against Bournemouth on Sunday.
Postecoglou remains hopeful for a consistent lineup as they aim to improve their league position.
Here are the details.
Player safety
Postecoglou prioritizes player safety over Europa League match
Postecoglou decided against fielding Romero and van de Ven in Thursday's UEFA Europa League round of 16 first-leg match at AZ Alkmaar.
He did so because of worries over the quality of the pitch at the Dutch club.
"When I saw the pitch the night before I pretty much made up my mind I wasn't going to risk them last night," he said, stressing on player safety in a press conference.
Injury update
Postecoglou updates on Solanke's injury status
Postecoglou also gave an update on England striker Dominic Solanke, who was forced off 20 minutes into his comeback from a knee injury sustained in January.
"Too early to tell. With Dom, he got a knee to the backside so he's probably a bit sore but it's a knock so hopefully it settles down pretty quickly," said Postecoglou about Solanke's condition.
Performance analysis
Postecoglou on Spurs's inconsistent performances this season
Postecoglou admitted that Spurs's injury problems have resulted in inconsistent performances in the Premier League.
The side sits 13th after a seven-match winless run between December and January, before three straight wins last month.
"Inconsistency has come from not having a consistent lineup... last night was a reflection of where we are," he said, emphasizing how injuries have affected their performance.
Need for consistency
Postecoglou emphasizes need for consistency in squad
Postecoglou stressed on needing another game to get the squad consistent.
"We definitely need another game to get the squad where we need to get to," he said.
He also wanted Spurs to move up the league table.
"Last night's disappointment - the best way is to put it right at the weekend ... I still want us to move up the table."
Information
Spurs lose against Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in Europa League
Lucas Bergvall's own goal led to Tottenham losing the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie at AZ Alkmaar. Postecoglou's side only had one late shot on target. It was teenager Bergvall, who shinned an attempted clearance from Troy Parrott's cross into his own net, leading to the Dutch side's goal (18').