Son Heung-min Issues Blistering Warning to Teammates: “Shape Up or Ship Out”
Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min has urged his teammates to eliminate their habit of sluggish starts if they are to overcome AZ Alkmaar and secure a spot in the Europa League quarter-finals.
Spurs head into Thursday’s crucial second leg at home needing a major response after a flat and uninspiring performance in the first leg resulted in a 1-0 defeat in the Netherlands. Their latest outing—a chaotic 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on Sunday—was another example of their inconsistency, with Son’s 84th-minute penalty salvaging a point after they found themselves two goals down.
While the late equalizer provided a minor morale boost, the result did little to mask Spurs’ underlying issues, particularly their slow starts and defensive lapses. The South Korean forward made it clear that his team cannot afford another poor opening if they want to keep their European dreams alive.
Son Urges Spurs to Step Up: ‘We Have to Take Responsibility’
Tottenham’s season largely hinges on European progression, especially after enduring a difficult winter plagued by injuries and a severe dip in form. Several key players—including Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Dominic Solanke—finally returned to action against Bournemouth, but their presence wasn’t enough to prevent Spurs from falling behind early once again.
Son believes his team must take accountability and make a collective effort to fix their recurring issues.
“Everybody has to look at themselves. Nobody will help us except us on the pitch,” Son told SpursPlay.
“Those of us playing need to take more responsibility. We’ve been sloppy too many times, starting games poorly, falling behind, and then having to chase the match. That’s not an ideal situation.
“We have to be stronger and move forward. You can’t always stay on the same step; you have to climb higher and improve.”
The frustration among the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium crowd was evident throughout Sunday’s match, especially after a series of misplaced passes early on contributed to another nervy start. Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou acknowledged post-match that a fast and energetic opening on Thursday could lift the home fans and create a much-needed positive atmosphere.
Son echoed these sentiments, calling on supporters, players, and staff to unite for what is set to be one of Spurs’ biggest games of the season.
“Sunday’s match is in the past—we have to look forward, stay positive, and embrace tough moments because Thursday is another massive game at home.”
“We need everyone—the fans, the players, the staff, the entire club—to be behind us. This is our chance to turn things around.”
“Talent alone doesn’t guarantee victories. Matches require the right mentality, commitment, and performance. Hard work always matters. We need to stay focused, respect our opponent, and give everything we have to overturn the tie, especially at home.”
Bournemouth Left Frustrated as Son’s Late Penalty Denies Them Victory
While Son’s late penalty rescued Spurs from defeat, it also left Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola frustrated, as his team was on the brink of climbing to sixth place before Kepa Arrizabalaga’s challenge on Son led to the controversial spot-kick.
Iraola suggested that Son cleverly drew the foul, using his experience to force a split-second decision from the referee.
“I think Son was very smart. He stopped thinking about scoring for a moment and focused on forcing contact with Kepa. He did it brilliantly.”
“Kepa gave him the opportunity, even if the touch was slight. I was waiting to see what the referee would decide, but once the penalty was given, it cost us.”
Must-Win Match for Tottenham on Thursday
Spurs now turn their full attention to Thursday’s Europa League second leg, where they must overturn the 1-0 deficit to avoid crashing out of the competition. With their domestic form faltering and the pressure mounting on Postecoglou, this match could define the remainder of Tottenham’s season.
If Spurs can finally start strong, utilize their home advantage, and take their chances, they could salvage their European campaign. But if the same sloppy patterns persist, their last hope of silverware this season could slip away.
