Tottenham Face Setback as Lucas Bergvall Misses Europa League Final

Tottenham Hotspur will play Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final without Lucas Bergvall. Manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed the young midfielder is not ready due to an ankle injury. Bergvall’s absence is a significant loss for Spurs ahead of the important match in Bilbao.

WHY IS BERGVALL NOT AVAILABLE?

Bergvall injured his ankle during training before the Europa League semi-final first leg against Bodo/Glimt. He has not played since, and Postecoglou announced in a press conference that the 19-year-old will miss the final as well.

“Team news is pretty much the same, Lucas is not available,” the manager said. Most of Tottenham‘s squad remains the same, with the likes of James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Dragusin and Dane Scarlett also injured.

WHY HAS BERGVALL BEEN IMPORTANT FOR TOTTENHAM?

This is Bergvall’s breakthrough campaign at Tottenham during a poor season for the club overall. Individually, the midfielder has excelled since making his debut in December. He has featured heavily for Postecoglou throughout the knockout stage, helping Spurs reach the finals.

Bergvall’s form in defence and possession has made him a favourite of the manager and fans. Although he has registered only two assists in the Europa League, his presence in the centre of the pitch is significant to Tottenham’s hopes of winning a trophy.

WHO WILL PLAY IN BERGVALL’S POSITION?

Bergvall’s injury means Tottenham will have to rely on the likes of Pape Matar Sarr and other midfielders. Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Micky van de Ven, Curtis Jones and Andre Almeida are among the names who could be expected to play in Bilbao.

This is a crucial game for the team and Postecoglou, who is under immense pressure. Winning the trophy will secure Champions League football, which will soften the blow of a disappointing Premier League campaign.