FOOTBALL fans across the globe are bracing for a high-stakes showdown this weekend as Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United clash at Tottenham Stadium. With Spurs reeling from recent cup exits and United riding high after FA Cup success, the pressure is on. A win is crucial for both sides: for Spurs, a much-needed boost after a disappointing season, and for manager Ange Postecoglou, a potential lifeline.
Ahead of this mammoth encounter, Showmax caught up with former Spurs and Bafana Bafana star, Bongani Khumalo, to get his insights on the match and Tottenham's season so far.
Tottenham Hotspur may find themselves languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, and have just exited two domestic cups, but a certain Spurs player has faith that his team can turn it around and salvage the season.
South African defender and former Spurs player Bongani Khumalo believes this weekend’s big game against Manchester United, which will be shown live on Showmax Premier League, could prove to be a turning point for his former team.
“Spurs have a very tough game this weekend, but they have managed a good result against the Red Devils this season so that’s positive,” Khumalo told Showmax.
“As sports people, we have our best responses saved for adversity, so let’s see how Spurs can bounce back from this challenge and what spice they can add to the fixture in terms of how they approach the game.”
He says while few will give Spurs a chance this weekend based on recent form; he is confident his team can get something out of this weekend’s mammoth clash at Tottenham Stadium.
“On paper, no one gives Spurs a chance, but that’s what the game is all about. We’ve seen some amazing results in football whenever the cards have been stacked against a certain team, so let’s see if Spurs can be that team and they can rewrite things and turn it around, because as sports people we live for those moments.
"When I look back at my career, I often think about the tough challenges that I faced, and it was in those moments when myself and the teams I played for really showed up. So, I really hope Spurs can turn things around as soon as possible.”
Khumalo says while it has been tough to see his team battle this season, there have been several reasons why Spurs haven’t been able to get going this season.
“The one thing I have noticed about their games is that there have been quite a few that have been high scoring. And while I suppose that is great entertainment value for the neutral, it hasn’t proved to be very sustainable.
"Obviously with injuries, Ange Postecoglou hasn’t been helped. Lots of young players have been given opportunities, which is a positive in the long run, but as immediate results would have it, it’s been very difficult. They have just been knocked out of two cups in a week, and that’s not the greatest feeling.
“There have been some positives though, like the way Ange has approached the games, and they have managed to squeeze in some very good high-profile results, but as you know, in modern football you need that consistency, and that is something they haven’t had.”
Asked whether he thinks the Spurs manager could get the sack, Khumalo says: “You never really know about a manager's lifespan because a few good results could change things.
“My understanding is that the people in charge at Spurs understand what is happening and how injuries haven’t helped their campaign so far. It has been a very challenging season for many reasons, and I think the owners truly understand that. Look at the injuries, a player like Richarlison comes back, scores, and then gets injured in the next game, so it doesn’t’ really help a manager when players aren’t available."
Despite the odds stacked against them, Khumalo believes Spurs can salvage the season.
“It’s never too late. There are still several games to be played at this point. We are in February, so if we can catch a good run of results things will look a lot better. However, challenging for top four and Champions League will be a tough ask, but anything is possible. The Premiership is difficult, and very tricky if things go south, but the challenge has been set for the boys so let’s see what they can do.”
He has called on his former team to show character till the end of the season.
“For things to turn around, we need more hard work, and the players need to show character. Spurs have experienced and good players that can turn things around when tested. They also have a manager that can fight, so I am hopeful.
“You never just write people off during a challenge. The next fixture is a big one and a huge opportunity to get a boost for the rest of the season.
“Spurs are a massive club, and it is well supported throughout the world. They have an incredible arena, and everything around the club is fantastic. The season has been up and down, but you do get those seasons in football. It is important that the players learn from these moments and get stronger. The future is bright and can potentially be very successful if everyone works hard and gives their all for the club.”