Ange Postecoglou's future as Tottenham manager has been the subject of intense speculation this week following a run of six defeats and one draw across their last seven Premier League games

Although Ange Postecoglou's position as Tottenham manager is secure, the rumours of Mauricio Pochettino’s return seem highly improbable.

"A return for Mauricio Pochettino would undoubtedly excite Tottenham fans, but is very unlikely. He has recently taken charge of the United States men’s national team and while a north London comeback remains a tantalising prospect, his current commitments make it improbable in the near term."

The hollowed-out Spurs backline looks it. Micky van de Ven is an irreplaceable talent and Cristian Romero, World Cup-winning centre-back, would be a big miss from any team. But let’s not forget that Dr Tottenham’s losses to Crystal Palace and Ipswich were achieved with near-full strength line-ups.

Ange Postecoglou has confirmed Micky van de Ven is set return from injury for Tottenham against Elfsborg in the Europa League on Thursday. Van de Ven has been out since suffering his latest hamstring injury in the 4-3 defeat to Chelsea on December 8.

Tottenham Hotspur have been given a huge boost ahead of their clash against Liverpool. Next week, Arne Slot and Ange Postecoglou will lock horns at Anfield in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, with a place in the final at Wembley Stadium up for grabs.