Tottenham Hotspur’s retention battle has been further complicated by growing injury concerns. It’s an issue that has plagued both Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor all season, with new head coach Roberto De Zerbi becoming the latest man tasked with guiding Spurs to safety.
De Zerbi confirmed that Rodrygo Bentancur will return to the matchday squad against the Seagulls, but it remains unclear whether he will start or come off the bench. The Uruguayan midfielder has been sidelined since January with a hamstring problem, but has returned to training in recent weeks. The Spurs manager also confirmed that Yves Bissouma is available, but the game will come too soon for Guglielmo Vicario.
The Italian goalkeeper underwent hernia surgery during the international break. “Bentancur is available. I don’t know if he will start the game or not. Bissouma is available, but Vicario is not. (Antonin) Kinski played very well at Sunderland, but Vicario is also an important player for us, he has great experience, character and personality,” said De Zerbi.
Cristian Romero suffered a season-ending injury in a clash with Antonin Kinski caused by Brian Brobby against Sunderland.
“Romero, I’m really sorry for him and his injury. First of all, people have to know non-stop that he’s suffering because of this injury and that he won’t be able to play for us anymore this season,” De Zerbi said.
“He is a great captain for us and for Tottenham. We have to be positive. We have Radu Dragusin and Kevin Danso. They play very well and give us quality of the ball.”
Wilson Odbert, Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Ben Davies and Mohamed Kudus will all miss the game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as they continue their rehabilitation from injuries. Spurs are plagued by serious injuries heading into this weekend’s encounter, but their opponents know they are in a much better position.
Fabio Hürzeler’s side remain firmly in contention for European football next season, just two points behind sixth-placed Chelsea.
However, the Seagulls will be forced to operate without Stefanos Tzimas, who injured his anterior cruciate ligament early in the season and subsequently underwent surgery.
Adam Webster is also a long-term casualty for Brighton and will not feature this weekend. James Milner will also be absent, with Haseler admitting: “He’s still going to be out, but it’s getting close.”
Lewis Dunk has been suspended for accumulating 10 yellow cards and will miss the trip to Spurs.
