Roberto De Zerbi
Tottenham Hotspur is gearing up to host Leeds United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend, aiming to secure another vital victory in their quest for Premier League safety. Following a significant 2-1 away win over Aston Villa, courtesy of goals from Conor Gallagher and Richarlison, Spurs are now one point clear of the relegation zone. However, the team faces several injury concerns, including key players like Richarlison and Guglielmo Vicario.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “No, I’m happy because we are working well with all players. Another very important week. We have no problems.”
Richarlison’s condition remains uncertain after he limped off the pitch during the victory at Villa Park. Reports suggest that he did not participate in training on Wednesday, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming match against Leeds United. De Zerbi expressed optimism about Richarlison’s recovery, indicating a potential return for the Chelsea game on May 19.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “He’s improving quickly, I don’t know for this game, we hope for the next game at Stamford Bridge.”
Guglielmo Vicario, the team’s goalkeeper, is still recovering from hernia surgery he underwent during the March international break. His return date remains unknown, and there is speculation about a possible move to Inter Milan.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “He’s not ready yet. I don’t know the plan… he’s suffering because he would like to help his team-mates, but he’s not available yet.”
The club also confirmed a severe injury to Xavi Simons, who ruptured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) during a match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. This injury will sideline him for an extended period. Similarly, Wilson Odobert suffered a ruptured ACL in February, further adding to Spurs’ injury woes.
Cristian Romero, the club captain, sustained a knee injury against Sunderland last month and will miss the rest of the season. However, there is hope for his participation in the upcoming World Cup.
Sergio Romero said: “I hope. I don’t know if there is a chance to play one [World Cup] game, two games, I don’t know. I hope so. But I don’t know.”
Mohammed Kudus and Dejan Kulusevski are also on the injury list, with Kudus facing a potential surgery after a setback in his recovery. Kulusevski’s knee injury has been a significant blow, as he is considered a crucial player for the team.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I’m sorry for him because he was one of my perfect players. He is a very specific player for me, like Kudus, like Romero. I hope for him that he can play in the World Cup because for a player [it] is the best period of their career. I don’t know the situation very well.”
Ben Davies is another player whose return is anticipated next season due to an ankle injury.
As Spurs prepare for their match against Leeds United, they will need to navigate these injury challenges to maintain their momentum and secure their Premier League status.