Pundit Slams Brennan Johnson for ‘One of the Worst’ Crosses That Led to Solanke’s Injury

Tottenham Hotspur endured a disappointing night in the Netherlands on Thursday, as Lucas Bergvall’s own goal in the 18th minute handed Alkmaar a crucial advantage heading into the return leg in North London.

Adding to their woes, Dominic Solanke was forced off the pitch with a back injury less than 20 minutes after making his long-awaited return from injury.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou admitted after the match that it was too early to determine the severity of Solanke’s issue, stating that the striker was still experiencing soreness.

Les Ferdinand Criticizes Brennan Johnson’s Cross

Solanke sustained the injury while attempting to meet a cross from Brennan Johnson on the right wing.

As the forward leaped to challenge AZ keeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro in mid-air, the two collided, leaving Solanke clutching his side in pain.

Former striker Les Ferdinand criticized Johnson’s delivery, arguing that the way the ball was played made it impossible to avoid a collision.

Speaking on TNT Sports 3 (6/3/25 – 21:56), Ferdinand explained:

“When the cross came in, I said to Owen [Hargreaves], that is one of the worst crosses for a centre forward.

You have to go for it, but you know you’re going to get clattered by the goalkeeper, and that’s exactly what happened.

“It’s one of those floated crosses where, as a forward who hasn’t had many chances, you feel compelled to go for it, knowing full well the goalkeeper is coming for you.

The ball was the keeper’s all day, and you can see his knee lands straight in Solanke’s back. Initially, I thought it was a dead leg, but it looks more serious. Hopefully, it’s just a knock, and he can recover quickly.”

Johnson’s Aerial Crossing Needs Work

While Johnson is effective at delivering low-driven crosses into the box, his aerial deliveries often lack precision, either looping too much or being overhit.

This inconsistency makes it difficult for teammates, particularly Solanke, who excels in the air, to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Improving his crossing accuracy is an area the 23-year-old must focus on, especially when playing alongside a striker with strong aerial ability.

As for Solanke, his determination to go for the ball was commendable, and Spurs fans will be hoping that his injury is nothing more than soreness from the impact rather than something more serious.