‘The dominant player on that side’ – Postecoglou on Destiny Udogie vs Arsenal

Both Ange Postecoglou and Destiny Udogie made their North London derby debuts today, and the Tottenham Hotspur manager has commended his defender’s performance in the game.

The Emirates Stadium hosted a highly competitive derby today with both sides taking a point apiece from the game in a 2-2 draw.

Destiny Udogie has enjoyed a fine start to his Spurs career so far. However, he had the unenviable task of dealing with Arsenal’s star player, Bukayo Saka today in what proved to be his first real test of the season.

Saka ended the game with one goal and also played a part in his side’s first goal when his shot was deflected past Guglielmo Vicario by Cristian Romero.

The England international had the better of his opponent, for the first half at least, but Udogie came back strong in the second half and eventually managed to keep the Arsenal man quiet.

Despite a shaky start, and a booking for his troubles, Udogie can leave the game with his head held high, after yet another encouraging display from the youngster. 

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Ange Postecoglou, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, looks on during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Postecoglou is happy with Destiny Udogie

Speaking to the press (via Football.London), Spurs manager, Ange Postecoglou explained why he was happy with his full-back’s performance in the game.

He said: “I thought both our full-backs had difficult jobs today. Arsenal have outstanding wide players but they dealt with it. 

“Destiny picked up a yellow card but I felt he dealt with it well and ended up as the dominant player on that side. It will have been a great learning experience for him.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I was a little bit worried about Udogie in the first half and when he picked up a yellow card, I thought he may end up getting substituted (or worse, sent off). However, he came out in the second half and put in a fantastic performance, effectively nullifying the threat of Arsenal’s main attacker.

Keep up to date with all the latest Tottenham news and opinion by following SpursWeb’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Related Topics

Have something to tell us about this article? Let us know