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    Tottenham and Wales star Brennan Johnson is tipped to stuff Turkey

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    BEN DAVIES wants Brennan Johnson to show his red-hot Spurs form for Wales.Johnson, 23, has eight goals in his last 14 games for club and country, including a stunning run of six in a row for Tottenham.Ben Davies will captain Wales in their Nations League clash with Turkey on SaturdayCredit: AlamyDavies attended a McDonald’s Fun Football session at Cheshunt FCThe forward has netted just four times in 31 caps at international level.But defender Davies reckons his Spurs pal is ready to transfer his dazzling club displays to the Dragons. Wales take on Turkey in the Nations League today and Davies, 31,said: “When you come into the team at international level it does take a bit of time to get going.“You make a few substitute appearances at the start but now Brennan’s got a pretty settled position in the team.read more in football“We know how dangerous he can be and if we want to be successful,he’s definitely going to be a big part of that.“He’s blessed with pace and that’s a nightmare for defenders — he’s a proper difficult opponent. “I’d much prefer to have him on my team. “He’s a player that the moment you switch off, he can take advantage because he’s so disciplined in his positioning and timing.”Most read in FootballDavies added: “It was a matter of time before it all clicked. “He creates chances and always looks threatening. He works hard, he’s a great guy and he deserves his success. I’m absolutely delighted for him. “If he keeps putting the ball in the back of the net, then that’s all we can ask for.”With Kieffer Moore out with a calf injury, Johnson will spearhead Craig Bellamy’s attack for the Group B4 tie.Defender Davies is set for his 91st Wales cap when he leads out his country in Turkey today — one behind legendary keeper Neville Southall.But he has never forgotten his Swansea roots.Davies says life has not always been glitz and glamour after he recalled how he used to train on local parks and beaches when he was in the Swans’ academy.The Tottenham defender, with nearly 300 Prem appearances, was one of SEVEN past and present Swansea stars who played in the 1-0 Nations League win over Montenegro last month.He was joined by Ben Cabango, Joe Rodon, Josh Sheehan and Liam Cullen in the starting line-up, while Ollie Cooper and Joe Allen came on as substitutes.That impressive figure is up to NINE in Craig Bellamy’s squad for the crunch trip to Kayseri, with the additions of Connor Roberts, Rhys Norrington-Davies and fit-again Dan James. It would be TEN but for midfielder Cooper’s foot injury. Davies, who has lived in London for a decade, says the strength of feeling for where it all started is highlighted by the fact his son Ralph has a Swansea kit. The Neath-born ace said: “It’s important not to forget your roots and remember where you are from.”Most of us came through that academy and it wasn’t like the one they have today or a lot of the clubs in England.“We were training a couple of times a week in the evening, anywhere we could get a pitch.“We were on Astroturf pitches, in local parks or even down the beach some days. “It wasn’t the luxury that some of the academy facilities are now.“But it was an amazing time. We had some great coaches who gave us every opportunity.“The club has done pretty well and managed to make some sales because of the quality of the boys out of the academy.“And you are also seeing those boys still there are now the heart of the Swansea team.“The guys have done an incredible job. It’s a proud place to come out of.”Davies, who attended a McDonald’s Fun Football session in Cheshunt near Spurs’ training ground, will skipper Wales in the absence of the injured Aaron Ramsey.He will go level with Southall — fourth in Wales’ all-time appearance list — when Iceland visit Cardiff on Tuesday night. Davies is well short of Gareth Bale’s 111-cap record but he reckons another Dragons star will smash all before him.He added: “I’m proud about my number of caps. Playing for Wales is a big honour.“When I started as a 19-year-old, it would have been an absolute dream to get this many.“I’m definitely looking at 100 but I still have the perspective of how good it is to have as many as I have already.“It’s nice to see the core of us that have been the mainstays of the team for the last eight to ten years.“When you get close to these milestones we will look back and say it was a good time for Welsh football.“Injuries permitting, I want to play for Wales as much as I can. That’s my mentality. I love playing for my country.” On beating Bale’s record, he added: “We will see where we get to. But you can’t dwell on things like that.“Even if I do get there then Ethan Ampadu is coming at 24 with 54 caps and he will demolish us all!”Wales are unbeaten in four matches under new boss Bellamy. Victories today and against Iceland will seal promotion to League A.READ MORE SUN STORIESDavies added: “It’s been a successful campaign so far. We’re going into the games looking to try and win the group — that has to be the aim.”l Ben Davies was celebrating the latest McDonald’s Fun Footballsessions this autumn, available to all children aged 5-11. Sign upnow for your nearest free session at mcdonalds.co.uk/football More

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      Bethany England backs ‘underdogs’ Tottenham to find their mojo in derby duel with Arsenal

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      BETHANY ENGLAND would love nothing more than a return to Sarina Wiegman’s England fold. But on Saturday the Tottenham captain’s focus will be on attempting to lead her team-mates to a derby victory over Arsenal. Tottenham hope to pick up their third win in the league this term when they host Arsenal at Spurs StadiumCredit: GettySpurs’ last WSL outing ended as a 4-0 away loss to Man City following a derby win against West HamCredit: GettyArsenal won their last league encounter against Tottenham at the Emirates avenging their first loss to their neighbours in the WSL last DecemberCredit: GettyThe 1:45pm clash at Spurs Stadium will take place three days before Wiegman’s squad announcement ahead of the Lionesses’ two final matches this year. Up first is a November 30 friendly clash with the United States at Wembley followed by a Bramall Lane match against Switzerland on December 3. The last time England, 30, featured for the Lionesses was as a substitute last August, when they competed in a World Cup final for the first time. A hip injury following the team’s 1-0 loss to Spain in that game, kept the striker sidelined for the first three months of last seasonRead More Football StoriesEngland, who was part of Wiegman’s 2022 Euros winning side, has not featured for the national side since. And while an international return before next year’s European Championships would be “amazing”, the Spurs’ skipper’s focus is on her club’s performance. England, who has 26 senior caps, said: “Obviously I’d love nothing more than to be named in that squad. “The next international camp is coming up and it’s up to Sarina (Wiegman) . Most read in Football”I can only control what I can control and make sure when I am on the pitch with Tottenham, I’m doing the best that I can. “We all know how football works and I’ve had a really amazing time with England. “Whether there will be more time in the future, I would welcome that with open arms. “All I can do now is control my own performances at my club.”Since joining Tottenham from Chelsea last January for a then British-record WSL transfer fee England has been influential in their recent history-making moments. Among them is captaining the side to a first North London derby victory in the top tier last December and leading them to an FA Cup final for the first time in May. The beauty of the game is so many things can happen and being the underdog isn’t always a bad thing. Bethany England Tottenham’s 1-0 win against Arsenal last December was preceded by England’s return to action from her hip injury in an away clash with Manchester United. A duel that Spurs, who are seventh, lost 4-0 before winning their next four games across all competitions. England, whose side have one win from their last four games, adds: “We were able to come off the back of an even worse defeat last year and turn it around. “I don’t see why it’s not impossible to do it this time. Both teams are going in (to this game) in different situations. “Arsenal haven’t had the best of runs (in the WSL) either but they’re going into the game off the back of a 5-0 win (against Brighton). “It’s going to be a completely different mindset for them coming to this compared to us. It’s not an impossible task.”Under Renee Slegers, the Gunners’ form has improved with the team having won four of their five games under their stand-in boss. However, England, who has scored twice in seven WSL games this term, said: “We’ve beaten them before. “We have the calibre of players to be able to do it again. But we won’t underestimate them.”Hopefully this week we can show we can step up our form and get the win.”With six points currently separating third-placed Brighton from Tottenham, England feels the competition this term is an exciting one for neutrals. And the striker who recorded a Transport for London announcement for fans arriving at White Hart Lane station tomorrow, believes a Spurs win could be a turning point for their season. She said: “For me it’s nice to see different teams being near the top. “It shows how much the game is growing and it’s not always going to be the same teams in (third or) fourth. “It makes it more exciting and interesting to the fans who watch us.”The beauty of the game is so many things can happen and being the underdog isn’t always a bad thing going into a game like this one. “If this can be the turning point for us, it will change the trajectory of our season. “We’ve just got to find our mojo again. Hopefully we can bring that this weekend.”Since head coach Robert Vilahamn took charge of the team last July, Tottenham have undergone a bit of an overhaul.Among the seven players who sealed Spurs transfers this summer are Australia forward Hayley Raso, 30, and Spain midfielder Maite Oroz, 26, who like Raso, joined from Real Madrid. And young Lionesses defender Ella Morris, 22, made a June move from Southampton. Morris’ England Under-23’s team-mate Lenna Gunning-Williams, is among the promising prospects to have come through Tottenham’s academy ranks in recent years. Lenna Gunning-Williams has made four top-flight appearances for Tottenham so far this termCredit: AlamyThe London-born forward, who joined Spurs at 16 and scored 38 goals in 39 games for their Under-21s, has made four substitute appearances for their WSL side. This followed her making her senior Tottenham debut two years ago ahead of a season-long loan move to Ipswich last term England said: “I also want that family environment for the youth coming through.”It’s important for the youngsters to know they’re having to work just as hard because this league is getting harder and harder every year.”You look at Lenna – she’s coming on in a lot more games and was on loan last year. Arsenal have gone five games unbeaten across all competitions following Renee Slegers taking charge of the team last monthCredit: Getty”She’s come in this season, put in some good performances and helped us get the win at West Ham. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You’ve seen the youth development here and this club has got huge ambition. “To be a part of that ambition and the history going forward is a huge honour for me.” More

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      Tottenham 1 Ipswich 2: Spurs BOOED off as newboys earn first Prem win in 22 years after Szmodics’ brilliant bicycle kick

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      IPSWICH were pretty in pink as they finally won a Premier League match after 22 years of waiting – and gave boyhood fan Ed Sheeran the perfect afternoon.The previous top-flight success was as far back as April 2002 when Darren Bent scored the winner as the relegated Tractor Boys beat Middlesbrough 1-0 at Portman Road.Ipswich Town earned their first Premier League win in 22 years with a 2-1 victory at TottenhamCredit: ReutersSammie Szmodics’ brilliant bicycle kick helped seal the pointsCredit: GettySpurs were off the pace as they were booed by their own fansCredit: GettyTottenham missed several big chances in front of goalCredit: ReutersThat was the season they waved goodbye to the Prem for more than two decades until gaining top-flight promotion last MayHaving waited a generation and more, acrobatic Sam Szmodics and quick-thinking Liam Delap were the heroes this time as Kieran McKenna’s patient men got off the mark at the 11th attempt this term.As they so often do, Tottenham take one step forward, two steps back, and after smashing Champions League outfit Aston Villa 4-1 last weekend, they were deservedly beaten by one of the bottom three clubs.Boss Ange Postecoglou will head off for the international break stewing over this defeat, which was greeted by boos from disgruntled supporters.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe promoted side used Remembrance Sunday as the day to debut their pink third kit, a particular colour found on many of the county’s iconic cottages.And it also has a silhouette of Framlingham Castle – the famous ‘Castle on the Hill’ immortalised in Sheeran’s love-letter to his Suffolk upbringing.The singer-songwriter, 33, was in the VIP seats for this occasion and the minority investor could not contain his delight as he witnessed the drought end in North London.It was a fast, frenetic start because with barely three minutes gone, both Ipswich and Tottenham should have scored from close range.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLess than 90 seconds had passed when Szmodics produced a smart save from Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario after Radu Dragusin failed to deal with a simple delivery.Moments later, Son Heung-min’s delightful cross into the box found Brennan Johnson – whose dad David played for Ipswich 23 years ago – but the flick from his outstretched boot bobbled wide of the goal.Tottenham star Pedro Porro has everyone utterly baffled with bizarre fact about how he works his BINSSet-pieces are an area in which Tottenham have shown defensive vulnerabilities and their disorganisation and lack of communication was evident during the second Leif Davis corner on eight minutes.Over it came with purpose and Cameron Burgess, a tall, powerful Australian defender, got the better of his marker but his header bounced off the crossbar before being booted away to safety.The warning signs for Tottenham had been there and on 31 minutes their worst fears came true.The cross from Jens Cajuste struck the back of Delap and Szmodics adjusted his body perfectly to the trajectory of the spinning ball before scoring with a sensational overhead kick.Maybe Brennan Johnson should have stopped that – the winger pulled out of a challenge at the last minute, perhaps thinking he might get hurt or would be penalised for a foul, but that lack of intervention was crucial.Tottenham fans have grown accustomed to this sort of narrative – in 2024, their team has conceded the opening goal in 13 of 15 home league matches.It got even worse before half-time when Axel Tuanzebe retained possession on the touchline and then the excellent Omari Hutchinson shrugged off Rodrigo Bentancur before spraying a pass out wide to Davis.The eventual cross from Szmodics was saved by Vicario but then, much to the goalkeeper’s misfortune, the clearance bounced off Dragusin’s leg.It would have gone down as an own goal but Delap showed enough enterprise – and crucially avoided being flagged for offside – to capitalise, bunding-in his easiest goal of the season.The entire Ipswich bench went mad and so did the 3,000 punters in the away corner.Booed off at half-time, Tottenham knew they had to respond quickly but an early goal by England striker Dominic Solanke was rightly ruled out for handball by VAR.It saved the blushes of referee Darren England, who was in charge of matters here for the first time since his VAR blunder in September 2023 when Liverpool’s Luis Díaz had a goal incorrectly disallowed for offside.Quiet in the first half, Son went close on 48 minutes when his 22-yard strike was superbly tipped over by Town stopper Arijanet Muric.And Tottenham were furious they were not awarded a penalty when Davis handled Porro’s right-wing cross on 61 minutes.Porro – who is donating part of his salary to Valencia flash flood victims – played a key part in Tottenham’s goal.It was his pinpoint corner that was headed in by an unmarked Bentancur, who blew kisses to his family members in the crowd.READ MORE SUN STORIESTottenham are known as Prem Comeback Kings, given the number of times they have turned around a losing position.But this time they were unable to get out of the straitjacket that had been tightened by their own making as Ipswich celebrated a famous victory, especially after Muric blocked Solanke’s attempt deep into stoppage time. 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      Tottenham suffer injury blow with Richarlison set to miss significant time after hurting himself assisting Solanke goal

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      TOTTENHAM star Richarlison is set to be sidelined for a “significant amount of time” after suffering a hamstring injury against Aston Villa.The versatile forward appears to have been hurt after producing the assist for Spurs star Dominic Solanke’s second goal on 79 minutes during Sunday’s 4-1 victory over Villa at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Tottenham star Richarlison is set to be sidelined for a ‘significant amount of time’Credit: RexTottenham star Richarlison got injured again after providing an assistRicharlison suffered a ‘significant’ injury, stated Tottenham boss Ange PostecoglouCredit: RexTottenham boss Postecoglou doesn’t know when Richarlison will returnCredit: RexThe Brazil international passed the ball to Solanke from the left flank and the North Londoners’ striker smashed it behind Emiliano Martinez’s net to make it 3-1 and seal three important points.But it was evident that Richarlison was in pain after that assist as he hobbled off just three minutes later when he was replaced by James Maddison.The 27-year-old looked distraught as he was embraced by both Maddison and Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou.Postecoglou confirmed that the Brazilian has sustained a “significant hamstring injury” shortly after returning from another recent issue.Read More on FootballAnd the Aussie head coach admitted the ex-Everton star will be back in the sidelines for the foreseeable future without issuing a timeline.Postecoglou said: “He was very disappointed. I think I said in the lead up, we tried to take a different approach, he worked awfully hard on his rehab but also his general fitness.“He’d really trimmed down in terms of his conditioning. He was doing everything right, we eased him back into playing, we didn’t want to overload him and unfortunately he broke down again.“He’s disappointed but ultimately, we’ve just got to keep getting him back in there and work with him to get him back up because he’s an important player. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”You saw last week the impact he had coming off the bench and setting up the goal for him.“Disappointing for him, disappointing for us because we haven’t really had him at our disposal this year. Richarlison breaks down in tears as he reveals he wanted to quit football and would always Google ‘rubbish about death'”But we’ll just keep working with Richy and try to get him back.”I’m reticent to put [a time on] it but he’ll be out for a significant amount of time. It’s a significant hamstring injury.”Richarlison spoke of his frustration at sustaining yet another injury in a heartfelt post on social media.The ex-Watford star posted on Instagram: “It’s a difficult moment, again. “I was very happy working hard and playing, but now I am injured again.“It’s difficult to say what I’m feeling in this moment, just pray for me… I hope God will protect me”. More

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      Tottenham snubbed Ollie Watkins transfer as Jose Mourinho refused to pay price tag… and signed flop striker instead

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      JOSE MOURINHO snubbed the chance to sign Ollie Watkins at Tottenham, because he cost too much money.Watkins, 28, has become one of the Premier League’s top strikers at Aston Villa, with 48 goal contributions in all competitions since the start of last season.Tottenham turned down the chance to sign Ollie Watkins in 2020Credit: GettyJose Mourinho thought the £28m price tag was too high for a cover strikerCredit: GettyThe England ace has fired Unai Emery’s side into the Champions League, and has solidified his status as England’s No2 striker behind record goalscorer Harry Kane.However, it has been revealed that Watkins could have played the same role at club level.Former Tottenham manager, director and scout David Pleat has revealed how the North London side came close to landing Watkins in 2020.He explained how then-Spurs boss Mourinho asked him about Brentford ace Watkins, before deciding that the £28million price tag was too much and therefore allowing Villa to swoop in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking on Sky Sports, Pleat, 79, said: “I spoke to Jose on a couple of occasions. I remember once he asked me about Ollie Watkins, I remember that quite clearly.”And at the time the price Brentford was £28m, which Dean Smith took the opportunity at Villa – a lovely man, Dean Smith.”We decided that that was too much money. Or Jose decided it was too much money to pay for a cover forward for Harry Kane.”Since that summer, Watkins has scored 75 goals in all competitions for Villa, adding 29 assists to take his goal contribution tally to 109.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSpurs signed a number of strikers as cover options for Kane, but struggled to find the right star.Current Fulham ace Carlos Vinicius was signed on loan from Benfica that summer instead, with the Brazilian scoring ten goals in all competitions, including one in the Premier League at a cost of a £2.7m loan fee.Spurs instead brought Carlos Vinícius in on loanCredit: GettyTransfer fees could be scrapped in biggest change to football in 30 years after landmark court case brought against Fifa In all, the 29-year-old has 41 goals and assists since 2020 from stints at PSV, Fulham and Galatasaray.Pleat added: “And in the end, we went for Vinicius, a player who didn’t do too well. We has one of two other players who came as cover for Kane.”They weren’t too successful, but they were cover players. “And we never really had the succession ready to take over from Kane when the inevitability came that he would leave the club.”Since then Richarlison was a big-money signing from Everton, but only managed three goals and was plagued by injury in the final season before Kane left for Bayern Munich in 2023.Other strikers the club have tried since Kane broke into the team in 2014 in an effort to cover him have also not worked out great.Clinton N’Jie, Vincent Janssen and Fernando Llorente all tried and failed to be suitable cover options for Kane.N’Jie, now 31, arrived at the club in 2015 for £8.3m but never scored for the club in 14 appearances. Arriving in 2016 for £17m, Janssen, now 30, scored just six goals in 42 games for Spurs before leaving in 2019.Ex-Swansea star Fernando Llorente was another option who arrived with the hopes of being effective cover for Kane in 2017.He netted 13 goals in 66 games over two years at the club after arriving for £12m.This means that over the nine seasons that Kane reigned supreme at the club, they spent £100m on back-up strikers for a return of just 32 goals in all competitions.Last summer Dominic Solanke was brought in as the club’s new talisman for an initial £55m that could see £10m added.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe ex-Bournemouth ace, 27, has three goals in 12 games under Ange Postecoglou.They face Aston Villa on Sunday for their next game.Tottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. 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      ‘Dr Tottenham’ strikes again in Crystal Palace clash as fans say ‘never fails to cure those in need’

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      CRYSTAL PALACE’s winless run came to an end thanks to a dose of “Dr Tottenham”.The Eagles got their first three points of the season with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first-half opener separating the sides. Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou looks on in frustrationCredit: RexAnd fans say they were blessed with the visit from Dr Tottenham to cure their lack of victories. One said: “Dr. Tottenham. Never fails to cure those in need.”Another added: “Imagine not thinking Dr Tottenham is a thing.”One swiped: “Death, taxes, and the Dr Tottenham cure.”READ MORE IN football Another said: “Never underestimate Dr. Tottenham.”Spurs fell to their fourth defeat in nine Premier League matches as manager Ange Postecoglou admitted fan frustration will be rife. He said: “It was one of those games with a lot of stoppages and battles and they ended up winning a lot of them and coming out on top. “There was a lot of disruption and it was hard to get any fluency. They did better than us.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”It turned into a game they were thriving on and we should have dealt with it better.”It was a poor goal to concede, it had nothing to do with playing out from the back. That can happen.Wayne Rooney reveals nine-word message to Plymouth stars that inspired stunning comeback from being 3-0 down”I’d be very surprised if they were happy right now. Why would I be happy? If I’m unhappy then they’ll be unhappy. “If you’re suggesting that our fans weren’t happy with today then that’s a fair assessment.” More

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      Tottenham player ratings: Lucas Bergvall looks a star in the making but Radu Dragusin endures another mixed display

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      TOTTENHAM made it a hat-trick of Europa League wins thanks to Richarlison’s penalty against ten-man AZ Alkmaar. The Brazilian converted from the spot on 53 minutes in an opening goal that eventually separated the sides. Richarlison won the game for TottenhamCredit: PAAnd the visitor’s night got even worse with five minutes to go when David Moller Wolfe was shown a second yellow. Here is how Dan King rated Spurs’ players from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Fraser Forster – 7Brilliant save and good rush from line in first half to stop Spurs falling behind. A spectator for most of the second half but made smart stop in last 20 minutes.Archie Gray – 5Unable to team up with fellow teenager Moore in first half to match threat from Tottenham’s other flank and struggled with pace of Ernest Poku.READ MORE IN football Radu Dragusin – 5Another mixed display. Good on the ball one moment, not so much the next. Sometimes looked strong, but then vulnerable, especially when Alkmaar ran at him.Radu Dragusin had another mixed displayCredit: GettyBen Davies – 7Tottenham’s Mr Dependable was their most convincing defender, thanks mainly to good positioning and calmness. Although even he showed signs of tension late on.Destiny Udogie – 6Did a bit of everything in the opening 45 minutes, although as usual his work in opposition half tended to be better. Less adventurous in the second half.Rodrigo Bentancur – 6After a commanding start, was unable to stop Alkmaar from gaining a first-half foothold. Apart from occasional lapses, maintained his authority better after the break.Most read in FootballMikey Moore enjoyed success on the leftCredit: AlamyMikey Moore – 7Missed golden early chance and looked uncomfortable on right. Immediate, massive improvement when switched to left, running at defence and creating chances..Lucas Bergvall – 8Impressive display with everything but a goal. Full of running, composed, and found killer passes that should have become assists. But had to go off injured.James Maddison – 7Skipper for the night had some lovely moments without finding a decisive contribution – until he let Richarlison have the penalty.Timo Werner was hooked at half timeCredit: RexTimo Werner – 5Superb cross for Moore chance but woeful finish when played through by Bergvall told you everything about his confidence levels. Hooked at half time. Richarlison – 6Busy and committed in first half, but ball wasn’t sticking much. Really wanted to take the penalty and converting it should be a morale boost. Lasted just over an hour.SUBSBrennan Johnson (for Werner, half time) – 5Failed to make most of a Bergvall pass. Quieter than usual.Dominic Solanke (for Richarlison, 65) – 6Worked hard without having a sight of goal. Dejan Kulusevski (for Bergvall, 73) – 6Gave the Spurs midfield the legs it needed to see out game.Pape Sarr (for Maddison, 73)  – 6Also brought an injection of energy to dampen Alkmaar hopes of a comeback.READ MORE SUN STORIESWilson Odobert (for Moore, 87) – 6Had two sights of goal but steered second wide from close range.Watch Jose Mourinho’s hilarious reaction after Man Utd keeper Andre Onana’s ‘double worldy’ save More

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      Lord Alan Sugar ‘fires’ Tottenham star during West Ham clash after booting ball out of play with shocking touch

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      TOTTENHAM ace Timo Werner drew the anger of Lord Alan Sugar with a massive gaffe during the Premier League clash with West Ham.Lord Sugar, 77, watched his beloved Spurs beat their London rivals 4-1 in the Premier League from the VIP section at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Lord Alan Sugar was left shaking his head after a poor touch by Tottenham ace Timo WernerAlly McCoist joked Tottenham’s former chief Lord Sugar would ‘fire’ WernerCredit: RexHowever, the North Londoners’ former chairman and part-owner wasn’t all smiles as he was left bemused by a comedic blunder by Werner, 28, in the second half.The forward kicked the ball out of play after a shocking touch and the camera panned to an unimpressed Lord Sugar who was shaking his head. Football pundit Ally McCoist saw The Apprentice boss’ reaction and joked he may have to fire the Germany international afterwards – like he did to underachieving participants of his reality show.Fans were also left laughing their socks off as they stormed social media to join in on all the fun.Read More on FootballOne fan tweeted: “Even Lord Sugar shaking his head at Werner.”Another commented: “Alan Sugar even laughed at him.”A third tagged Lord Sugar on the following tweet: “Your reaction to Timo Werner errors sums it all up.”This fan said: “Werner miscontrols it and Sugar is laughing.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd that one quipped: “Alan Sugar shakes his head in the VIP area as Werner gives up the ball.”However, Lord Sugar probably left the Tottenham ground content after a big win over West Ham, despite the Hammers picking up the lead after just 18 minutes through Mohammed Kudus.Tom Barclay on how Werner could be a good signing for SpursHowever, Ange Postecoglou’s side fought back just shortly after as they equalised with Dejan Kulusevski.The hosts turned the game on its head in the second half with Yves Bissouma on 52 minutes before adding some distance with Alphonse Areola’s own-goal just three minutes later.And Son Heung-min sealed the three points on the hour to add more misery to Julen Lopetegui’s turbulent start to life in charge of West Ham.To make matters worse, the struggling boss will be without Mohammed Kudus for three matches after his part in a wild brawl late in the game. More

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      Son Heung-min set to take huge Tottenham record off former England star who says ‘I’m happy it’s going to be him’

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      DARREN ANDERTON can think of nobody who is more fitting to steal his assist record for Spurs than selfless skipper Son Heung-min.Former England midfielder Anderton tops Tottenham’s charts in the Premier League with a whopping 68.Son Hueng-min could set a new assist record against West HamCredit: GettyDarren Anderton is Tottenham’s record holder with 68Credit: GettyBut South Korean icon Son is creeping up behind on 64 and will surely surpass him at some point this term.Son will target getting even closer to Anderton’s record at home to West Ham.And Anderton, 52, told  SunSport in association with freebets.com: “If anyone is going to break that record, I’m very happy it’s going to be Son because he’s a team player.“I always considered myself to be that, and always put the team first.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“I’d get as much joy at  creating opportunities and  setting up goals as I did from scoring myself.”Assists — providing the final ball to the player who scores the goal — were not as revered in Anderton’s 1990s heyday.But the growing influence of stats-obsessed American sports and the rise of fantasy football have seen the goal-maker take almost as much credit as the goal-taker.Put it this way: Anderton would be hailed far more for his playmaking ability if he were playing today rather than 30 years ago.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMany of Anderton’s assists saw him tee up old mucker Teddy Sheringham.In fact, their epic 27-goal combinations make the pair the fifth-most prolific duo in Premier League history.Top ten Premier League managers’ WagsSon is top of that particular list owing to his fruitful partnership with Harry Kane.They hit a staggering 47-goal combinations before Kane was sold to Bayern Munich two summers ago.California-based Anderton added: “We live in America now and all the sports over here are about the assists and the stats and everything.“So I’ve always been aware of it. My American friends always used to say that it’s scandalous no one ever speaks about assists!“Now they do, so that’s good, and I think they should. It’s a huge part of the game and it’s what happens in the final third that wins games.“Your team can have all the possession in the world but it’s that final ball which is so, so important.“I’m very proud of the record. It’s something that I was always aware of.“When I first got in at Spurs I struggled, but then things really took off for me and my relationship with Teddy in terms of assists and scoring goals.“When Harry and Sonny had their assist-goal relationship, I saw myself and Teddy’s names up in the top five  Premier League goal-assist partnerships.“Someone sent me something the other day about my record on social media when Son had two assists and I was like, ‘Oh, OK’.“We were having dinner and I showed my daughter and  wife and we were having a bit of a giggle about it.”Son has missed Spurs’  last three games due to a hamstring issue picked up  in the 3-0 home win over Qarabag in the Europa League group stages last month.However, the South Korean expects to return to action today in the early kick-off.The attacker, 32, is one of Spurs’ greatest modern-day players and is 21st in the all-time list of Premier League goalscorers on 122.But he has only scored in one match this season — the 4-0 win over Everton on August 24 — and has not netted in his last five club appearances.Anderton added: “He hasn’t played as well as he would like and against Manchester United, he wasn’t missed — that performance was incredible.“But that’s all part of getting to that sort of age and things start to change. I left Spurs at 32, I thought I had a few more years in me, but that’s all part of the game that we all play.“But everyone in football knows how good he is.“He’s the perfect football player. He works his socks off, he creates opportunities, he scores goals.“He has always produced  and has been an unbelievable player for the club.”But if Spurs are to beat their London neighbours today, Anderton believes the performance of £40million midfielder James Maddison will be key.The playmaker has struggled for large parts of this year as he battles back to peak fitness after damaging ankle ligaments in November 2023.But he has been in red-hot form in recent weeks, yet was overlooked again by England this month.Anderton felt the 27-year-old deserved a recall and believes the North Londoners are at their best when Maddison is on top of his game.Euro 96 star Anderton, who won 30 caps for his country, added: “When he plays well, we play well.“He has that X Factor that when teams sit deep because we do dominate, you need that bit of magic to create things.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Christian Eriksen used to do it and James Maddison is in that mould.“After he had that injury last season, our form was never the same. He’s that important to the team.”James Maddison was left out of the last England teamCredit: AlamyWho are these famous footballers? More