Richarlison not fit to play 90 minutes as Ange Postecoglou mulls forward options

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has admitted Richarlison is not fit enough to play 90 minutes as he deals with the implication of Dominic Solanke’s ankle injury.

Solanke only joined Spurs earlier this month in a £65million move but will miss Saturday’s visit of Everton after he took a whack to his ankle during the 1-1 draw at Leicester on Monday.

Richarlison would ordinarily be in line to replace Solanke. However, he failed to play a single minute in pre-season due to a calf injury which ended his 2024-25 campaign prematurely.

Asked about Richarlison, Postecoglou said: “He’s fit to start the game because he’s training but can he play 90 minutes? No.

Dominic Solanke misses this weekend’s fixture after picking up an ankle injury against Leicester.

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“So, that’s where the decision lies. He came on last week but match fitness is different and he hasn’t played a minute in pre-season.

“That’s the thing with Richy, it’s trying to get him fit. Obviously we have to be a little bit careful with him because he hasn’t played for quite a while.

“I’ve said before, whenever he’s been fit and available, I’ve always chosen him because he’s a handful for oppositions. He’s a real physical presence in the box, he’s a good finisher, he works hard for the team.

“But hopefully now getting Dom in, the whole idea is that we can share that workload and not be so reliant on one player.

“I think he’s still at a good age, Richy, where he can still play some fantastic football for us. We’ve got to make sure we keep him fit and manage his workload so we can get the best out of him.”

Richarlison had interest from the Saudi Pro League this summer and could have left if a suitable offer