Igor Tudor
As Tottenham Hotspur approaches a critical period in their season, the club is grappling with a series of injury concerns that could impact their performance. With the possibility of slipping into the relegation zone looming, the Spurs are keen to have key players available for selection. The injury list includes significant names such as James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Rodrigo Bentancur, among others.
The interim Spurs boss Igor Tudor said: “Yeah, there is a positivity, but also understanding the game, it is not easy. So, important game, but probably it will not decide anything after the game, independent of the results.”
Dominic Solanke, who has been dealing with a hip injury, was absent from the squad during the UEFA Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. Despite not training on Friday, there is optimism about his availability for the upcoming weekend fixture.
Igor Tudor said: “Dom didn’t train, but probably tomorrow he will train with the team, and I think he will be available. He had a hip problem, but I think he will be ok.”
James Maddison, recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, has returned to training, aiming to regain match fitness. His return is anticipated towards the end of May.
Igor Tudor said: “Yes. Maddison is already doing interesting things as well with the ball. Sprinting as well. I saw him. He is positive. He’s positive.”
Dejan Kulusevski, who underwent surgery earlier in the year, remains sidelined with no clear timeline for his return.
Igor Tudor said: “[In response to whether Kulusevski has made any progress] No, not yet.”
Mohammed Kudus, sidelined with a muscle injury, is progressing well in his recovery, with a potential return in April or early May.
Igor Tudor said: “So we have this big three weeks after the game on Sunday. I don’t know. Probably some part of the things with the squad maybe 10 days. I don’t know, I’m not sure. We need to check, but he is progressing very well. Already a little bit with the ball.”
Rodrigo Bentancur, who had surgery on a hamstring injury, is expected to be fit by the end of April, provided there are no setbacks.
Igor Tudor said: “Rodrigo [Bentancur] as well, Maddison as well. We hope the medical staff will make us some nice surprise in the next weeks which would be very important to have that.”
Guglielmo Vicario, the club’s goalkeeper, is set to undergo hernia surgery, potentially sidelining him until the end of April. Meanwhile, Yves Bissouma and Ben Davies are dealing with their respective injuries, with uncertain return dates.
These injuries pose a significant challenge for Tottenham as they face a crucial stretch in their campaign. The club’s medical staff is working diligently to ensure the players’ swift recovery, with hopes that their return will bolster the team’s performance and help them avoid relegation threats.