Pundit questions Ange Postecoglou’s decision to start 28-year-old against Arsenal

Former English defender Stephen Warnock expressed reservations about Postecoglou’s starting XI for the crucial game against Arsenal, particularly questioning the inclusion of Hojbjerg in the midfield.

Despite numerous rumours linking him with a departure in January, Hojbjerg opted to remain at Spurs for the remainder of the season, due to the injury crisis at the club which left the squad quite thin.

However, Spurs are not inclined to retain the Danish midfielder beyond this season, considering he has less than 18 months remaining on his contract, which expires in June of the following year.

Hojbjerg received only his 7th Premier League start of the season under Ange Postecoglou against Arsenal on Sunday, after featuring as a substitute in 9 consecutive games.

Unfortunately, the 28-year-old didn’t have an ideal start to the game, as he scored an own goal within the first 15 minutes of the game, inadvertently heading Saka’s delivery from the corner into his own net.

Warnock questions Ange’s decision to start Hojbjerg

Speaking on The Football Show on Sky Sports, Warnock expressed surprise at Postecoglou’s decision to start Hojbjerg in such a crucial fixture, particularly given the formidable midfield opposition posed by players like Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.

Warnock questioned Hojbjerg’s mobility compared to other potential options such as Pape Matar Sarr or Yves Bissouma, suggesting that players with higher energy levels might have been more suitable for the match.

He said (quotes via HITC):

“I was a little surprised by his team selection, if I am being completely honest.”

“I thought it was a surprise he went for Hojbjerg in midfield. I like him, but I just don’t think he is as mobile as Sarr or Bissouma. Whether they picked something up or they weren’t fully fit in some way.”

“I just felt, if you are going to play against Declan Rice and Partey in that midfield, then you are going to need some energy levels and Odegaard as well. You have to be at your very, very best. I am just not sure Hojbjerg is that mobile enough to do that sat in a two.”

Hojbjerg’s role at Tottenham has diminished this season under the new manger, with only seven starts in 25 league appearances. He has often served as a substitute, frequently entering the game during its latter stages.

With regular playing time seemingly elusive at Tottenham, it’s anticipated that the former Bayern Munich midfielder will seek opportunities elsewhere in the upcoming transfer window.