While boardroom drama dominated the buildup, manager Igor Tudor has focused on the resurgence of Netherlands international Xavi Simons, who became the club’s top target after the failed Gibbs-White and Eze pursuits. The former PSG man recently netted a brace against Atletico Madrid, but the Lilywhites lost 7-5 on aggregate.
“He was motivated. He was good, with the right mentality,” said Tudor. “When he’s like that, his qualities come out. It was a beautiful surprise for me. We need this in these last games we have to play.”
The Spurs boss also provided a positive update on James Maddison’s recovery from an ACL injury. “Yeah. Maddison is already doing interesting things as well with the ball, sprinting as well. I saw him, he’s positive.”