Tottenham Hotspur have been woeful this season — there is no denying that — but it would be unfair to ignore the severe injury crisis that has hampered the north London side throughout the campaign.
The absentee list has been extensive, and interim boss Igor Tudor has admitted the enormity of the challenge after stepping in to replace Thomas Frank until the end of the season. Frank departed N17 holding the lowest win percentage (27%) of any Spurs manager in the Premier League era.
If Tottenham are to climb out of trouble and avoid relegation to the Championship, senior figures must rise to the occasion. With Cristian Romero suspended, added responsibility has fallen on Micky van de Ven.
Van de Ven’s Growing Influence
Recently linked with clubs such as Liverpool FC and Real Madrid, Van de Ven could be forgiven for disbelief at Tottenham’s current standing. Nonetheless, only relentless effort will help restore the club’s fortunes.
The 24-year-old Netherlands international has worn the captain’s armband on several occasions this season. With Romero struggling to lead consistently, teammates have increasingly looked toward Van de Ven for direction and motivation.
Renowned for his pace and aggression, he has also shown leadership qualities and a willingness to improve. After winning just 48% of his ground duels last season, that figure has risen significantly to 62% since the summer. Despite his efforts, however, he cannot shoulder the burden alone and requires greater support from those around him.
Palhinha’s Rise to Prominence
While leadership has been scarce at times, Tottenham do possess players capable of matching Van de Ven’s influence. One of last summer’s additions has quietly developed into arguably the side’s most vital figure.
When Spurs secured Joao Palhinha on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich, the move was viewed as a practical solution to reinforce midfield solidity. Some supporters likened him to Victor Wanyama — a powerful presence who may lack attacking flair but offers steel and discipline.
Palhinha has since become a cornerstone of the team, particularly during this turbulent period. The 30-year-old Portugal international may not be the most dynamic or creative midfielder, but his defensive output has been immense, averaging 3.7 tackles and 6.1 duels per Premier League match this season.
Notably, the former Fulham FC standout has yet to commit a single error leading to a goal in the league — a significant statistic for a Tottenham side that ranks among the division’s most error-prone teams with eight direct mistakes.
Like Wanyama, Palhinha provides more than sheer physicality. He has demonstrated an ability to produce decisive moments, including a memorable strike against AFC Bournemouth in January.
Wanyama arrived at Spurs from Southampton FC for £11 million in 2016, making 97 appearances and scoring seven goals. Though his peak did not last throughout his tenure, his combative style remains fondly remembered — the kind of presence Tottenham require once again.
This season, Palhinha has won more tackles than any other player in the Premier League:
Premier League 25/26 – Most Tackles Won
Joao Palhinha – 24 apps, 88 tackles
James Garner – 27 apps, 81 tackles
Elliot Anderson – 27 apps, 76 tackles
Tyrick Mitchell – 27 apps, 76 tackles
Joao Gomes – 26 apps, 75 tackles
With Tottenham battling to escape relegation danger, Palhinha’s relentless and disciplined approach has become indispensable. In a team often undermined by costly mistakes, his consistency and combative edge have elevated him into arguably the club’s most important player heading into the decisive months of the season.
