Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou made a bold decision with his midfield today, one that doesn’t bode well for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
Hojbjerg watched the beginning of the defeat to Aston Villa from the bench, despite all those that were missing.
With Yves Bissouma suspended and Pape Matar Sarr injured, Hojbjerg looked like a nailed on pick to add defensive security.
However, after a poor performance collectively against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Postecoglou made some illuminating changes.
Eric Dier was also dropped, a player who seemingly doesn’t fit Postecoglou’s philosophy – one he’s not willing to waive.
And it’s also been clear since the summer that Hojbjerg, who has been crucial in previous years, also doesn’t fit the mould.
Tottenham’s second half performance against Wolves appears to have been confirmation for Postecoglou that he was right in his convictions.
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Eric Dier and Ben Davies wasn’t a partnership capable of playing his progressive football, and one that was immediately axed.
And although he kept his spot against Villa, Davies is still being criticised by pundits.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg doesn’t have a Tottenham future under Ange Postecoglou
Following the last few weeks, it certainly wouldn’t be a surprise if both Dier and Hojbjerg were sold in January.
Spurs are desperate for recruitment, and would surely move the pair on if they could find buyers.
Postecoglou’s Tottenham squad building is still in its infancy, but he simply doesn’t need the likes of £15m Hojbjerg, who could also be vital for another top team.
There’s bound to still be a ton of comings and goings in this Spurs side, ones that could eventually suit all parties.
Both Dier and Hojbjerg do still have the levels to play for a top side, but they simply don’t match Ange’s philosophy.
Perhaps the best delineation is comparing the duo with players Tottenham have been linked with.
Matt O’Riley, a progressive and fluid midfielder, has been strongly linked with joining Postecoglou in the past.
And another name mentioned for January, Koki Machida, has a similar skill set at left-centre back.
Hojbjerg and Dier don’t have a future under Postecoglou at Tottenham and changes should be expected.