“They know what it means”: Ho ready for London derby | OneFootball

Tottenham travel to Selhurst Park on Sunday looking to extend their unbeaten start to the season, but Martin Ho does not believe his players will need any additional motivation for a London derby.

Asked how he prepares his squad for fixtures like this, Ho pointed to the growing number of London clubs competing in the WSL and the experience his players have already gained from those encounters. He believes there is a clear understanding within the squad of what these matches mean, with the more experienced London-based players helping to pass that message on to newer teammates.

“They know what it means to play a London derby for this football club,” Ho said.

The Spurs head coach was also full of praise for a Crystal Palace side who have made a positive return to the WSL, taking four points from their opening two matches. Palace are one of only a handful of teams yet to concede this season, with Ho describing their defensive organisation as “really strong and resilient”.

He also highlighted the threat they carry going forward, particularly through players capable of causing problems in one-on-one situations.

Ho went on to underline the competitiveness of the division, reiterating a view he has held since before the season began. With greater investment across the league and recruitment continuing to improve, he believes this could develop into one of the strongest WSL campaigns in recent years.

That increased competition also means Spurs cannot afford to take any fixture lightly. Ho made clear that there is never a game he approaches simply expecting his side to win, regardless of the opposition.

There was further positive news on the injury front, with Cathinka Tandberg back in training after being withdrawn with a dead leg against Liverpool.

“Tinka was a dead leg on Sunday,” Ho confirmed, adding that she is expected to be available for selection.

Alice Sombath is also available and could make her first appearance since joining Spurs in the summer, while Jess Naz, Maite Oroz and Clare Hunt remain sidelined through injury.

Tottenham face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park at 2pm BST on Sunday, with the match broadcast live on Sky Sports+ and the Sky Sports WSL YouTube channel.