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'Won't approach it differently' - Van de Ven on keeping fit for the season

Van de Ven Insists on Unchanged Approach Ahead of Crucial Clash with Manchester City

In the high-stakes world of Premier League football, where every match can tip the scales of title races, cup runs, and European qualification, Tottenham Hotspur's defender Micky van de Ven has made it clear that he won't be altering his game plan, even against formidable opponents like Manchester City. Speaking ahead of what promises to be a blockbuster encounter, the Dutch international emphasized a philosophy of consistency and self-belief, refusing to let the reputation of star-studded rivals dictate his on-pitch strategy. This mindset, rooted in his rapid rise through the ranks and his adaptation to English football, underscores a broader narrative of resilience and tactical discipline that has defined Spurs' season under manager Ange Postecoglou.

Van de Ven, who joined Tottenham from Wolfsburg in a £43 million deal last summer, has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team's defense. At just 22 years old, his blend of pace, aerial prowess, and composure on the ball has drawn comparisons to some of the league's elite center-backs. But it's his mental fortitude that shone through in his recent comments. "I won't approach it differently," he stated firmly when asked about facing Manchester City's lethal attacking lineup, which includes the likes of Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden. For Van de Ven, the key is maintaining the same intensity and focus regardless of the opposition. "Every game is tough in the Premier League," he explained. "Whether it's City or anyone else, you have to be at your best. Changing your approach just because of names on the team sheet shows weakness. We stick to our principles."

This declaration comes at a pivotal moment for Tottenham. Currently jostling for a top-four finish, Spurs have shown flashes of brilliance this season but have also been plagued by inconsistency, particularly in defense where injuries and form dips have exposed vulnerabilities. Van de Ven himself missed a chunk of games due to a hamstring issue earlier in the campaign, but since his return, he's been instrumental in stabilizing the backline. His partnership with Cristian Romero has provided a solid foundation, allowing Postecoglou's high-pressing, attacking style to flourish. Yet, against a Manchester City side that's chasing a historic fourth consecutive Premier League title, the challenge is immense. City's dominance, fueled by Pep Guardiola's tactical genius and a squad depth that's the envy of Europe, makes them the ultimate test for any defender.

Delving deeper into Van de Ven's comments, it's evident that his outlook is shaped by experiences both personal and professional. Hailing from Wormer in the Netherlands, he began his career at Volendam before moving to Wolfsburg in 2021. There, he honed his skills in the Bundesliga, facing top talents like Robert Lewandowski and Karim Adeyemi. "I've played against some of the best strikers in the world," he reflected. "Haaland is incredible, but so are others. You learn from every duel, but you don't reinvent yourself for one player." This pragmatic view aligns perfectly with Postecoglou's ethos at Tottenham, where the emphasis is on collective effort over individual matchups. The Australian manager has repeatedly stressed the importance of bravery and playing "our way," a mantra that Van de Ven has fully embraced.

The upcoming match at the Etihad Stadium isn't just about points; it's a litmus test for Tottenham's ambitions. Spurs have a mixed record against City in recent years, with memorable victories like the 2-0 win in 2020 under Jose Mourinho, but also heavy defeats that highlight the gulf in class. Van de Ven, however, draws confidence from Tottenham's earlier 3-3 draw with City this season at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. In that thrilling encounter, Spurs fought back from deficits twice, showcasing the kind of resilience that could be key again. "We showed we can compete," Van de Ven said. "It's about executing the plan for 90 minutes, plus whatever it takes. No fear, just focus."

Beyond the tactical aspects, Van de Ven's comments touch on the psychological warfare inherent in top-level sport. Manchester City, with their array of trophies and global superstars, can intimidate opponents before a ball is even kicked. But Van de Ven rejects this notion outright. "Respect them, yes, but fear? No," he asserted. "If you go in thinking they're unbeatable, you've already lost. We have quality too – Son, Maddison, Kulusevski. It's a team game." This confidence is infectious, potentially galvanizing a Spurs squad that's been under scrutiny for lacking the killer instinct in big games. Critics have pointed to dropped points against lesser teams as evidence of mental fragility, but Van de Ven's words suggest a dressing room that's united and undaunted.

Looking at the broader context, this fixture could have ripple effects across the league. Arsenal and Liverpool are breathing down City's neck in the title race, and a Spurs upset could open the door for them. For Tottenham, a positive result would not only boost their Champions League hopes but also silence doubters who question Postecoglou's high-risk style. Van de Ven, as one of the young pillars of this project, represents the future. His speed – clocked as one of the fastest in the league – allows Spurs to defend high up the pitch, a tactic that could exploit City's occasional vulnerabilities on the counter.

In preparation for the game, Van de Ven highlighted the importance of recovery and analysis. "We review every match, learn from mistakes, build on strengths," he said. "Against City, it's about being compact, winning duels, and transitioning quickly." He also praised the role of set-pieces, an area where Tottenham has improved, thanks in part to his own heading ability. "Details matter," he added. "One moment can change everything."

As the Premier League season hurtles toward its climax, stories like Van de Ven's remind us why football captivates millions. It's not just about skill; it's about heart, strategy, and the refusal to back down. Whether Tottenham can translate this mindset into results remains to be seen, but with players like Van de Ven leading the charge, there's reason for optimism in north London. The defender's unwavering approach could be the spark that ignites a memorable performance against the champions.

Expanding on Van de Ven's background provides further insight into his steely resolve. Growing up in a football-mad family, he idolized Dutch legends like Virgil van Dijk, whose path from the Eredivisie to Premier League stardom mirrors his own aspirations. "Van Dijk showed it's possible," Van de Ven noted in a previous interview. "You work hard, stay humble, and opportunities come." This humility is evident in his day-to-day routine at Hotspur Way, where he's known for his dedication to training and recovery sessions. Teammates have lauded his work ethic, with captain Son Heung-min calling him "a warrior" in the backline.

The match against City also brings into focus the evolving nature of defending in modern football. Gone are the days of purely reactive backlines; today's defenders must be ball-players, capable of initiating attacks from deep. Van de Ven excels in this regard, boasting impressive passing accuracy and the vision to pick out forwards like Richarlison or Timo Werner. Against City's press, this skill set will be crucial. "You can't just boot it away," he explained. "You have to build from the back, stay calm under pressure."

Critics might argue that Van de Ven's confidence borders on naivety, especially given City's recent form – unbeaten in their last 20 league games. But history is littered with underdogs who triumphed through sheer belief. Think of Leicester's miracle title win or Tottenham's own run to the 2019 Champions League final. Van de Ven's stance embodies that spirit, a refusal to be overawed.

In conclusion, as Tottenham prepares to face Manchester City, Micky van de Ven's message is clear: no changes, no concessions, just pure commitment to the cause. Win or lose, this approach could define not only the match but the trajectory of Spurs' season. Football, after all, rewards the bold, and Van de Ven is nothing if not audacious in his outlook. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full BBC Article at:
[ https://sports.yahoo.com/article/wont-approach-differently-van-ven-130619799.html ]