Lionel Messi is a “good judge,” according to Ange Postecoglou, who also said that Cristian Romero, a star for Tottenham, is the best defender in the world.
The Argentine striker showered the Spurs center-back with accolades during the world champions’ victory over Ecuador in a CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifying match last month, during which Messi struck one of his signature free kicks.
Romero participated in all seven games of La Albiceleste’s triumphant World Cup campaign in Qatar last winter, serving as a vital member of the winning squad.
Messi praised his countryman for being “the best defender in the world right now” for his accomplishments on the international stage, and the 25-year-old is still a key player for the team under Postecoglou.
In the Saturday victory over Luton, he performed admirably under trying circumstances, receiving commendation from colleagues Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie following the match.
In response to a direct question concerning Messi’s remarks, Postecoglou said, “He’s a good judge.”
Regarding the former Atalanta defender in a broader sense, the Spurs manager stated: “I believe Cuti gives Van van Ven and Udogie a sense of belonging.” He is by their sides, and you can see how much more at ease they are.
“You should absolutely have him on your squad. Indeed, he exudes a certain physicality, but he also plays effectively.
“His passing range, ability to really position himself well, to stay calm and then just ridiculous bravery to always put his body in there. He’s just an outstanding defender.”
Spurs injury update: Rodrigo Bentancur, Brennan Johnson, and Manor Solomon most recent information and anticipated comeback dates
A midfield talent is very close to rejoining Spurs, which will be a huge help for Ange Postecoglou.
Tottenham leads the Premier League and is in a great position going into the international break.
The season has gotten off to a fantastic start under Ange Postecoglou, with the team’s spirits having quickly increased due to notable gains in both output and output.
However, Postecoglou still has to deal with the fact that Yves Bissouma is currently suspended following his red card. Additionally, in his tenure as manager, he has not yet had the chance to deploy players like Ryan Sessegnon or Rodrigo Bentancur.
The most recent information regarding Tottenham’s injury list is available here.
The Rodrigo Bentancur
Rodrigo Bentancur is making progress in his recuperation from his February ACL injury.
Though only for warm-ups, the midfield has been seen participating in first-team training. Spurs want to make sure they don’t hurry Bentancur and run the risk of a setback.
Postecoglou has stated that November still remains the target for his return
Potential return date: November 2023
Brennan Johnson
Brennan Johnson has been sidelined for the past few weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained during last month’s north London derby.
Postecoglou is optimistic that the forward can return to action quickly following the break, despite the fact that he missed the trip to Luton on Saturday and will not be playing for Wales on international duty.
Prior to the Spurs match against Luton, the manager expressed optimism that Brendan Johnson would have time to recover over the international break. “Brennan Johnson is close, but he’s not quite 100%,” he stated.
Potential return date: Monday October 23 2023 vs Fulham
/ REUTERS
Manor Solomon
Tottenham confirmed last week that Manor Solomon has undergone surgery on his right knee after suffering a meniscus injury in training.
No exact timeframe has been given for his return, but the forward is expected to miss at least a couple of months and so is unlikely to play a major role for the club before the end of the year.
Potential return date: December 2023
Ivan Perisic
Ivan Perisic had “suffered a complex Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury in his right knee,” according to a statement released by the team last month.
Given that his Spurs contract expires in the summer, it is likely that the 34-year-old will miss the remainder of the season and that this will be his last game with the team.
Possible time of return: summer 2024
Ryan Sessegnon
Ryan Sessegnon has not played since February, much like Bentancur.
The left-back underwent hamstring surgery during the summer and has not yet returned, however he has begun light exercise to aid with his recuperation.
That is still up to him, though, and a return to first-team practise is not expected anytime soon.
Possible date of return: November 2023
