LONDON – If you were making a blueprint for Tottenham to fulfill their manager’s lofty ambitions concerning trophy wins in year two, a crucial element would be Heung-min Son playing at a level close to his prime years. That player might just be the best in the Europa League, the type who can swing a match in Spurs’ favor.

That is the Son Tottenham got Thursday night. They had to wait a while, but after his block led to a high regain, from which Wilson Odobert leveled the score, he flashed moments of brilliance. Coupled with incisive play from James Maddison, there was enough in the team to shed off the nerves after AZ Alkmaar punished a sloppy defense to draw level in the tie.

Son’s influence was vital in setting up Odobert’s second goal and complemented Maddison’s strike. With an incisive left flank led by Djed Spence, Spurs proved too much for AZ. Under their coach Ange Postecoglou, they now face the prospect of a quarterfinal against Eintracht Frankfurt with the hope of having tonight’s version of Son.

Though not entirely absent this season, Son’s contributions include 11 assists and nine goals across all competitions. His expected goals contribution is still commendable but falls short of the levels he raised during his prime. With age working against him, Son continues to adapt despite the challenges he faces from athletic fullbacks in the league.

The performance against AZ might signal a resurgence. Tottenham’s key players stepped up at crucial moments, and while they aren’t favorites just yet, the potential for Son to return to form could make them dangerous in the Europa League.