.
Tottenham have three wins from three in the new eight-game format and would almost certainly guarantee at least the safety net of a playoff spot with another victory in Istanbul. But they will be heavily depleted against the Turkish league leaders, who have dropped only two points from 10 domestic games, and the occasion will be a test for the less-experienced members of Postecoglou’s brood. Even if the modern Rams Park does not quite offer the “Welcome to hell” of the old Ali Sami Yen stadium, there are few more intimidating venues.
“I’m sure they’re all looking forward to it,” Postecoglou said of the opportunity to stand tall in front of such intensely partisan support. “That’s why you play football. This generation, a lot of them experienced what football was like without supporters [during the Covid lockdowns] and certainly don’t like that. It’s a fantastic stadium, the supporters create an unbelievable atmosphere here and they love the big European nights.
“[Galatasaray] are a very, very good team, exactly the kind of game you want to be involved in. Whether you’re young or old, irrespective of the role you have you look forward to it.”
The 17-year-old winger Mikey Moore had been pencilled in for his third straight European start but, in a blow to the manager’s efforts to rotate, has a virus and has not travelled. Richarlison, who only returned to action last month, is another casualty after damaging a hamstring in Sunday’s buccaneering win over Aston Villa.
Postecoglou said the Brazilian would “probably be out for a while” and revealed Timo Werner had been carrying a groin problem that precludes his involvement. Another absentee, Cristian Romero, may be fit to …
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