Ange Postecoglou has backed a well-rounded side to overcome one of the continent's most feared problems when Spurs take on Galatasaray in the biggest test of their Europa League campaign so far.

Tottenham have won three of three in the new eight-game format and another win in Istanbul would almost certainly secure at least the safety net of a playoff place. But they will be severely depleted against the Turkish league leaders, who have lost just two points in ten home games, and this occasion will be a test for the less experienced members of the Postecoglou brood. While the modern Rams Park doesn't offer quite the “welcome to hell” feel of the old Ali Sami Yen Stadium, it's hard to find venues more intimidating.

“I’m sure they’re all looking forward to it,” Postecoglou said of the opportunity to assert himself in front of such strong partisan support. “That’s why you play football. In this generation, many of them have experienced what football was like without fans (during the Covid lockdowns) and they certainly don't like that. It's a fantastic stadium, the fans create an incredible atmosphere here and they love the big European nights.

“(Galatasaray) is a very, very good team, exactly the kind of game you want to take part in. No matter whether you are young or old, no matter what role you play, you look forward to it.”

17-year-old winger Mikey Moore was due to make his third consecutive European appearance but, in a setback to the manager's rotation efforts, he has a virus and did not travel. Richarlison, who only returned to action last month, is another injured player after suffering a hamstring injury in Sunday's Buccaneers' win over Aston Villa.

Postecoglou said the Brazilian would “probably be out for a while” and revealed that Timo Werner had a groin problem which ruled him out of action. Another absentee, Cristian Romero, could be fit again for Sunday's game against Ipswich, while Micky van de Ven, Wilson Odobert and Djed Spence remain out.

Postecoglou spoke about Galatasaray's attacking threat, which was no surprise considering coach Okan Buruk can name a strike force with Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi. In defense he can rely on former Spurs central defender Davinson Sánchez. A 4-3 win over Elfsborg in their last Europa League game here gave an idea of ​​how exciting the team could be. “They are definitely very dangerous in the front third,” said the Australian. “Their attacking players are individually very, very good. They are a strong team physically, so we have to balance their attacking threat with our style of play.”

Moore's illness could mean Brennan Johnson, who might have expected a break, continues to play on the right flank opposite Son Heung-min. Young striker Will Lankshear could start if Postecoglou opts to keep Dominic Solanke fresh. Two goals against Villa underlined Solanke's importance and he will be hoping to build on last month's return to England when Thomas Tuchel takes over. “I would like to be there again,” said Solanke. “I worked hard to get back there, so staying there is definitely my goal.”