Timo Werner’s transition to English football hasn’t been as prolific as anticipated, especially considering his impressive goal-scoring record in the Bundesliga prior to his arrival. During his tenure at Chelsea, Werner struggled to replicate his earlier success, often being criticized for missed opportunities and offside positions rather than his goal-scoring prowess.
Despite the lack of goals, Werner’s dedication and effort on the field have remained unwavering. Therefore, when he finally found the back of the net for Tottenham, scoring the equalizer in a remarkable 3-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace, there was a palpable sense of relief and appreciation from fans and observers alike.
This significant goal, coming after a missed opportunity earlier in the game, symbolized a breakthrough for Werner and marked a turning point in his Tottenham career. It ignited hope and excitement among supporters, who had been eagerly awaiting Werner’s contribution to the team’s success.
It was a vital goal in Tottenham’s comeback after they went behind to a brilliant free-kick by Eberechi Eze. It broke the Palace resistance because, three minutes later, Cristian Romero headed Spurs into the lead and Son broke clear to score the third late on.
‘I’m very happy for him,’ said Son Heung-min. ‘Timo is working really hard. I wish he had scored in the first half to make the game a little bit easier but he was very happy to score his first for Spurs. He deserved it and there are many more to come.
‘When you miss a big chance you think the world is against you but Timo stepped up, didn’t give up. He’s playing fantastic. I hope he enjoyed a goal that can help the team, but Timo shouldn’t celebrate this any more because the fans and the players are expecting more from him. I hope he continues to work hard and help his team.’
‘After what happened in the first half of the season at Leipzig, I have felt very comfortable here,’ said Werner. ‘The group, the manager and the trainers gave me the feeling I’m needed here, they want me here. Now with the goal it helps a striker to be more patient. I’m not waiting any more, now it’s here and hopefully I can score many more.’
Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has dismissed the notion that Timo Werner’s recent goal was a desperate necessity for the German forward. Since joining on loan from Leipzig in January, Werner has been a valuable asset for Spurs, particularly on the left wing.
Postecoglou appreciates Werner’s attributes, including his pace, energy, and relentless determination to exploit spaces behind the opposition’s full-backs. These qualities align perfectly with the tactical approach favored by the Spurs boss, disrupting organized defensive formations and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
While Werner’s loan deal doesn’t mandate a permanent transfer, his contributions thus far have been noteworthy, especially in light of injuries to Manor Solomon and Richarlison, as well as Son Heung-min’s absence due to international duty.
For Postecoglou, the most gratifying aspect of Werner’s goal was the teamwork involved, as it came from a cross delivered by fellow winger Brennan Johnson. This reflects a fundamental aspect of Postecoglou’s football philosophy, which emphasizes wide players attacking the back post. The manager’s frustration was evident earlier in the match when Werner’s low cross wasn’t capitalized upon by Dejan Kulusevski, highlighting the importance of effective wing play in his tactical approach.
‘Timo had a really good game,’ said Postecoglou. ‘Aggressive, taking on his full back. He had the chance in the first half but for that crucial goal he was in the right area, winger to winger. It’s something we work on every day.’
Crystal Palace’s first defeat under manager Oliver Glasner serves as a reminder of the work that lies ahead for the team. As they prepare to host Luton in their upcoming fixture, Palace will see it as a crucial opportunity to distance themselves from the relegation battle and acclimate to Glasner’s managerial style.
