The plan
Things didn’t go to plan for Tottenham final time period. The excessive of a fifth-placed end in Rehanne Skinner’s first season was not backed up as Spurs flirted with relegation for 2 thirds of the 2022-23 marketing campaign. Nine straight defeats finally did for Skinner as she was relieved of her duties in March.
Her assistant, Vicky Jepson, took the reins within the interim and, buoyed by the signing of Bethany England, they navigated their solution to security.
A everlasting supervisor was wanted, and Robert Vilahamn finally arrived. It was an thrilling transfer, little doubt, however has left the brand new man in cost little time to rebuild. The squad stays balanced with six out and 6 in after a comparatively quiet switch window.
Goalkeeping cowl was wanted after the departure of Tinja-Riikka Korpela, resulting in the arrival of the Czech worldwide Barbora Votikova from Paris Saint-Germain. Luana Bühler and Olga Ahtinen are stable prospects and convey Champions League expertise with them. Meanwhile, the deadline-day acquisition of Martha Thomas was crucial after England was dominated out of the beginning of the season and the Polish ahead Nikola Karczewska was despatched out on mortgage.
Tottenham followers can even anticipate large issues from Grace Clinton, an England Under-23s star. The 20-year-old shone on mortgage at Bristol City within the second half of final season and shall be seeking to proceed her growth and improve her recreation time inside the Tottenham setup.
Spurs’ harm disaster maybe flew beneath the radar final season nevertheless it had a big affect. Many of these returning will virtually really feel like new signings. Kit Graham and Ria Percival are available in contemporary with half a marketing campaign beneath their belts after recovering from ACL accidents. Ellie Brazil, in the meantime, is on her manner again from the identical harm whereas Jess Naz must also be again to full health.
Pre-season has been a combined bag with goalless attracts in opposition to Aston Villa and Brighton. Spurs rounded off with a 1-0 defeat to Manchester United of their final apply match earlier than a gap day derby in opposition to Chelsea.
The supervisor
Robert Vilahamn could also be a brand new face within the WSL however his report at dwelling in Sweden ought to fill Tottenham followers with optimism. The 40-year-old’s appointment got here off the again of a formidable report with Häcken. Moving from assistant supervisor to move coach, he guided them to the Champions League in 2022 and two Swedish Cup finals. He was additionally a participant himself, having fun with a profession as a striker in Sweden, and is understood for his front-footed fashion and talent to develop younger gamers.
Star participant
Sometimes it might probably take high-profile signings time to settle. Not Bethany England. Twelve targets in 12 appearances have been precisely what Tottenham have been searching for once they paid a report payment for her, and she or he performed an integral half in securing their security. Managers know precisely what they get with England – a hard-working confirmed goalscorer. Hip surgical procedure will maintain her out of the beginning of the season, nevertheless it absolutely received’t be lengthy till the brand new Tottenham captain sparks life into their assault as soon as extra.
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High-profile summer signing
Luana Bühler caught the eye amid a relatively quiet summer for Tottenham. The 27-year-old Swiss international has spent the last five years in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim. During her time in Germany, she became a centurion for the club and has featured in the Champions League. She brings plenty of international experience to north London, having featured in the Switzerland squad for both Euro 2022 and this summer’s World Cup.
World Cup 2023 delight/heartache
There was history made for Tottenham’s Jamaican duo, Becky Spencer and Drew Spence. They both played a key role in the Reggae Girlz’s impressive progress to the last 16 despite the lack of support from their federation. Rosella Ayane was part of a Morocco team that made an equally historic run to the knockouts that included eye-catching victories over Colombia and South Korea. England, meanwhile, made her major tournament debut as the Lionesses reached the World Cup final.
Tottenham have a strong following across social media, with dedicated women’s channels across the main platforms. In particular, their TikTok is amassing engagement with fun, relevant content. The participation of both Vilahamn and England in a recent fans’ forum was well covered and saw a strong response from supporters.
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