Tottenham drop huge Micky van de Ven injury return hint before Fulham clash

Tottenham Hotspur have delivered a significant injury update regarding Micky van de Ven as they prepare for their Premier League fixture against Fulham.

The Dutch defender has been sidelined since October following a hamstring injury sustained during the Carabao Cup victory over Manchester City. His absence has posed challenges for manager Ange Postecoglou, particularly with other key players like Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie also enduring spells on the sidelines.

Since joining Tottenham in the summer of 2023, Van de Ven has faced recurring hamstring issues, with three separate injuries forcing him to miss 15 matches so far. This situation has complicated Tottenham’s defensive options, disrupting their momentum and leaving gaps in their lineup during crucial games.

Postecoglou has expressed cautious optimism about Van de Ven’s recovery but remains focused on ensuring the player is fully fit before rejoining the team.

In a recent press conference, Postecoglou provided an update on the team’s injury status. He mentioned that Romero is the closest to returning, although his availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain.

“Romero is closer, he’s probably the closest, but again probably unlikely, though I’m not ruling him out,” Postecoglou remarked. He emphasized the importance of monitoring players closely and assessing their readiness through successive training sessions.

Regarding Van de Ven, Postecoglou stated, “Micky is still on course, working harder, training again. It is sort of day by day with him.

We just gotta again make sure he ticks all the boxes before he gets reintegrated in.” This careful approach underscores Tottenham’s commitment to managing the player’s return methodically, minimizing the risk of further setbacks.

On Friday afternoon, Tottenham released a montage highlighting Van de Ven’s rehabilitation progress. The 64-second video showcased the defender engaging in gym exercises before transitioning to outdoor sessions on the grass at Hotspur Way.

Despite training individually, the intensity of his workouts suggests significant strides toward recovery. The high-paced drills indicate he is nearing readiness for team training, a crucial step toward reclaiming his spot in the starting lineup.

With the demanding Christmas schedule approaching, Tottenham are eager to bolster their defensive options. However, Van de Ven’s involvement in Sunday’s London derby against Fulham remains doubtful despite the evident progress he has made.

Postecoglou and his medical team appear determined to prioritize the long-term fitness of their players over short-term gains, a strategy that could prove vital as the season progresses.

The rehabilitation progress of a player with recurring injuries often serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in elite sports.

Tottenham’s approach to Van de Ven’s recovery reflects the need for meticulous planning and patience. As the team navigates a challenging fixture list, having key players return to full fitness could be the decisive factor in achieving their season’s objectives.

As fans eagerly await updates, the club’s careful handling of injuries demonstrates their dedication to sustaining performance and minimizing disruptions. Tottenham’s strategy of prioritizing health and long-term contributions over immediate returns could position them as a more resilient squad in the latter stages of the campaign.

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