Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that Richarlison has sustained another injury, adding to the club’s growing list of sidelined players. As Spurs prepare for their challenging away fixture against Newcastle United, this injury setback could open the door for a promising young player to step up in the first team.
Tottenham’s recent performances have shown promise, with a dominant 4-0 win against Everton in their last Premier League match. However, facing Newcastle United at St James’ Park is always a tough challenge, especially given Tottenham’s struggles in this fixture over the past two years. The absence of key forwards like Richarlison and Dominic Solanke makes the task even more daunting.
Richarlison’s injury, though unfortunate, presents an opportunity for 19-year-old Will Lankshear, one of Tottenham’s most exciting young talents. Lankshear, who joined Spurs from Sheffield United’s academy in 2022, has developed rapidly over the past two years. His progress has been so impressive that the club rewarded him with a new contract earlier this summer, signaling their belief in his potential.
Despite currently being sidelined with a minor injury, Lankshear is expected to return to full fitness soon. Ange Postecoglou has already indicated that Lankshear was kept at the club this season, rather than being loaned out, because of the belief that he can contribute to the first team in domestic cup competitions and the Europa League. With Richarlison now facing a potentially extended spell out, Lankshear is poised to seize this chance.
Speaking to Football London, Postecoglou expressed his confidence in Lankshear’s abilities and confirmed that the young forward will be part of the first-team setup moving forward. “Yeah, we’ve been really happy with Will. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury in that game against Bristol Rovers, but he should be all right after the window,” Postecoglou said. “That’s why we’re keeping him with us, him and Mikey [Moore] are the two young players we’re going to keep with the first-team and the reason we’re going to keep them with the first-team is because we feel like they’re going to contribute and play.”
Postecoglou emphasized that Lankshear and Mikey Moore, another highly regarded young player, will be involved in the Europa League, Carabao Cup, and potentially the Premier League if needed. “Whether that is Europa League or Carabao Cup or the league, they’re part of the first-team and if Richy is out for an extended period of time, then Will will definitely be a part of it,” Postecoglou added.
Lankshear’s potential has not gone unnoticed among Tottenham supporters. The 19-year-old has been praised for his power, movement, and finishing ability—traits that are essential for a top striker. His style of play has even drawn comparisons to Harry Kane, Tottenham’s legendary forward who recently departed for Bayern Munich. While these comparisons add pressure, they also highlight the high expectations surrounding Lankshear’s future.
Should Lankshear reach even a fraction of Kane’s level, he would undoubtedly carve out a successful career at Tottenham. For now, his immediate focus will be on making the most of the opportunities that come his way in the first team, especially with the club facing a demanding schedule and key players out injured.
As Tottenham gears up for their clash against Newcastle United, all eyes will be on how Postecoglou navigates the challenge with a depleted squad. Lankshear’s potential inclusion in the first team could offer a glimpse of the future for Tottenham’s attack, and fans will be eager to see if the young forward can rise to the occasion.