Tottenham Hotspur face a crucial League Cup match against Manchester City on Wednesday night, eager to bounce back after a challenging few weeks. Ange Postecoglou’s team is coming off a disappointing defeat to Crystal Palace, which followed a recent loss to Brighton & Hove Albion, making this upcoming clash even more significant as Spurs attempt to regain momentum in what has been a mixed season so far.
Despite Sunday’s setback at Selhurst Park, Tottenham cannot afford to dwell on their recent struggles. Their Carabao Cup journey continues at home, and while City manager Pep Guardiola is expected to field a weakened lineup, prioritizing the league and Champions League competitions, Spurs will likely approach the game with full commitment to ensure they advance.
Yet, a potential team selection by Postecoglou could prove controversial among Spurs fans. Reports from *GiveMeSport* suggest that Timo Werner is set to return to the starting lineup against Manchester City, a decision that may divide opinions given his recent performances. The German winger was pulled from the starting eleven after being substituted at halftime against AZ Alkmaar and was also absent from the starting lineup in the subsequent league game against Palace. In Werner’s absence, 17-year-old Mikey Moore was given a chance on the left wing and made an impression, leading some supporters to hope that Moore would retain his place in the squad.
However, with Heung-min Son sidelined due to injury and Wilson Odobert also experiencing a setback, Tottenham’s options on the left wing are limited, leaving Werner as the most viable option for Postecoglou. The £15 million summer signing has struggled to find form this season, and despite his pedigree, has yet to deliver the kind of impact Spurs had hoped for. Postecoglou’s decision to reinstate Werner in a game seen as a “must-win” by many fans could carry some risk, especially with Moore as a promising alternative. Some supporters may feel uneasy with Werner’s inclusion given his difficulties adapting to the pace and demands of the Premier League so far.
Concerns have even arisen about Werner’s long-term future at Tottenham, with speculation mounting that Spurs might consider terminating his loan deal early. Clubs can end loan agreements midway through the season, as Tottenham did last year when Djed Spence’s loan to Leeds United was cut short. Postecoglou is reportedly considering a summer upgrade in the form of a more versatile winger capable of playing on both flanks, which could put Werner’s place in jeopardy.
Nevertheless, injuries on the left have highlighted the current lack of depth in that position, underscoring the need for a player like Werner, even if his performances have not met expectations. Without Werner, Tottenham’s only fit natural left-winger would be young Mikey Moore, a promising talent but still inexperienced at the top level. If Tottenham were to part ways with Werner in January, it would require securing a reliable replacement to avoid leaving the squad short-handed, especially if injuries persist.
While the speculation around Werner’s future grows, Tottenham’s immediate focus will be on Wednesday night’s fixture against City. This match presents an opportunity for Werner to prove his worth and contribute in a meaningful way. A strong showing against a weakened City side could provide him with the confidence and support needed to turn his form around and gain the trust of Postecoglou and Spurs fans alike.