Bentancur, Richarlison, Van de Ven: Tottenham injury news and expected return dates ahead of Tamworth

As Tottenham Hotspur gear up for a weekend of intense cup action, the team faces a challenging injury landscape with several key players sidelined. With crucial matches ahead, the injury updates on these players could have a significant impact on Spurs’ performances in the coming weeks. Here’s an overview of the current situation and potential return timelines for the injured players.

Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a worrying head injury during the midweek clash against Liverpool, leading to a stoppage of play for ten minutes. Fortunately, Bentancur has confirmed that he is feeling better, but he is expected to miss this weekend’s action.

The club’s halftime statement assured fans that he was conscious and undergoing further medical checks at a hospital. Despite this encouraging news, no definitive return date has been set for the midfielder.

Fraser Forster, the backup goalkeeper, has been out of action due to an illness rather than an injury. According to manager Ange Postecoglou, Forster has been severely affected and remains bedridden. This unexpected setback led to January signing Antonín Kinský stepping into the starting lineup against Liverpool.

Kinský’s impressive debut performance might prompt Postecoglou to keep faith in the new recruit, even if Forster recovers in time for upcoming matches. Forster could potentially return for the clash against Tamworth on January 12, but his status remains uncertain.

Destiny Udogie faces a longer spell on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Wolves game in late December. Postecoglou acknowledged the toll on players due to limited rotation options, and the injury to Udogie serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands placed on the squad.

The full-back is expected to remain out until mid-February, with a possible return during the fixture against Manchester United on February 16.

Micky van de Ven has been another major absentee for Tottenham after picking up an injury against Chelsea in early December. His absence has left a noticeable void in Spurs’ defense.

However, there is good news as Van de Ven approaches the final stages of recovery. Postecoglou has hinted at a potential return by the end of January, with the defender possibly featuring in the match against Leicester City on January 26.

Cristian Romero, who also sustained an injury during the Chelsea match, is nursing a calf problem after an earlier foot issue kept him out for a significant part of the season. Like Van de Ven, Romero is targeting a return by the end of January, with the same fixture against Leicester City marked as a potential comeback date.

Ben Davies, initially expected to make his return in late 2024, experienced a setback during his recovery from a hamstring problem. This unfortunate development has delayed his return by a couple of weeks.

Postecoglou explained that the injury resurfaced during training, ruling Davies out for a few more games. A possible return could happen against Everton on January 19, provided his recovery progresses without further complications.

Guglielmo Vicario, the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, remains sidelined after undergoing surgery on a fractured ankle sustained during a November match against Manchester City. Vicario is working diligently on his recovery and continues to maintain a strong presence around the squad, offering leadership and support.

Postecoglou praised Vicario’s commitment to pushing boundaries in his rehabilitation, though a specific timeline for his return remains unknown.

Richarlison is edging closer to rejoining the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury. Postecoglou has adopted a cautious approach to reintegrate the Brazilian forward into the team, emphasizing the need for two solid weeks of training before his return to competitive action. If all goes well, Richarlison could make his comeback in the match against Everton on January 19.

Wilson Odobert, one of Tottenham’s summer signings, continues to be a long-term absentee. He has not featured since September’s narrow defeat to Arsenal.

A significant setback in his recovery led to surgery on his right hamstring in November. The club has yet to determine when the 19-year-old will resume training, leaving his return date uncertain.

As Tottenham navigate this challenging period, the return of these key players will be pivotal in maintaining their momentum across competitions. With Postecoglou carefully managing the squad’s recovery and rotation, Spurs fans will hope to see a stronger and more balanced team in the weeks to come.