Ange Postecoglou confirms major Tottenham injury boost ahead of Arsenal derby
Ange Postecoglou says there is light at the end of the tunnel for Tottenham on the injury front with Richarlison fit to join the squad for Wednesday's north London derby
by Alan Smith · The MirrorAnge Postecoglou has confirmed that Richarlison is fighting fit for Wednesday night’s north London derby, a game that the Tottenham boss says will have a huge bearing on their season.
Brazilian striker Richarlison is set to be on the bench against Mikel Arteta ’s side, who also have their own share of injury issues, after recovering from his latest hamstring injury.
And while Timo Werner is set to miss out after injuring his hamstring against Tamworth at the weekend, Postecoglou hopes there is "some light at the end of the end of the tunnel" with Richarlison returning.
"It’s been an unfortunate season for him," Postecoglou said. "He fights and scraps for everything but he has quality as well. Having him available makes a big difference for us in terms of the way we play.
"We’re taking our time with him for sure. He’s been harassing me for 10 days to be invited but we’re trying to In training he looks ready to go.
"It was good to have Mikey [Moore] back at the weekend. The situation is what it is. This is a big game for the club, our season and the supporters. We're looking forward to it."
Tottenham have won just one of their past 31 league away games against Arsenal (drawing 12 and losing 18) with the most recent win a 3-2 victory in November 2010.
But of more concern for Postecoglou is a run of four league games without a win, leaving them 12th in the table. Spurs, however, have secure consecutive victories in cup competitions - despite needing extra time to beat non-League Tamworth in the FA Cup on Sunday.
"It's important to start winning games in the league, that's where the emphasis lies. We've had some significant wins and not kicked on from them this year. If we get the job done tomorrow we need to make sure our focus is on another big game at the weekend."
Arsenal's injury issues are focused on their frontline with Gabriel Jesus joining Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri on the sidelines after hurting a knee against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
Asked if he can sympathise with Mikel Arteta following Spurs injury-hit winter, Postecoglou said: "How much sympathy have they had for me?
"I’ve got empathy, that’s a better word. I understand how challenging it is for any team. It’s where the injuries hit that make it challenging. I’m sure Mikel won’t let it get in the way of him putting out a team that will want to hit us."
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