Tottenham Hotspur’s 2024/25 campaign has been a rollercoaster ride, with the club struggling to replicate the success of Ange Postecoglou’s impressive first season in North London.

Despite showing glimpses of promise, Spurs’ momentum has been derailed by injuries to key players, leaving the team exposed in critical moments. However, the latest update on Ben Davies’ return to training offers a glimmer of hope as the club aims to stabilize its form.

Tottenham entered the season with high expectations but have faced inconsistent performances. Wins against Southampton in the Premier League and Manchester United in the Carabao Cup hinted at brighter days, only for those hopes to be dashed by a humbling 6-0 defeat to Liverpool.

The team’s struggles can be attributed in part to an ongoing injury crisis. Ange Postecoglou has had to navigate an unprecedented depletion of his squad, particularly in the defensive department. At present, Radu Dragusin is the only fully fit center-back available, leaving Tottenham’s backline vulnerable.

Defensive Woes Amplified by Injuries

The injuries to Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have severely weakened Tottenham’s defense. Van de Ven has been sidelined with a recurring hamstring problem, while Romero is dealing with a quad injury. To make matters worse, goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario underwent ankle surgery and will be out for several months. This combination of absences has contributed to Spurs’ alarming defensive frailty, as evidenced by the recent heavy defeat to Liverpool.

Postecoglou has been forced to deploy unconventional defensive partnerships, with Dragusin paired alongside young midfielder Archie Gray in central defense. This makeshift setup has highlighted the urgent need for reinforcements and the importance of experienced players like Ben Davies returning to action.

Positive News on Ben Davies

In a press conference ahead of Tottenham’s Boxing Day clash against Nottingham Forest, Postecoglou delivered an encouraging update on Ben Davies’ recovery. The versatile defender has resumed training and could potentially feature in the upcoming game against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.

“Yeah, he’s [Davies] training,” Postecoglou stated. “Will train today [Christmas Eve] and just can’t risk any more injuries, so my gut tells me that’s only two sessions with the team before Boxing Day, so probably wiser to save him for the weekend. But the plan is to have him training and potentially be available.”

Davies’ return could not come at a better time for Tottenham. The 31-year-old defender, who has been sidelined since early December with a hamstring injury, has missed crucial fixtures against teams like Chelsea, Southampton, and Liverpool. His absence has left Tottenham’s defensive line stretched thin, forcing Postecoglou to rely on inexperienced players in high-stakes matches.

While Davies will not be available for the Nottingham Forest game, his potential inclusion against Wolves could provide much-needed stability. Known for his reliability and versatility, the Welshman has been a key figure in Tottenham’s squad, offering dependable performances when called upon.

Given the severity of Tottenham’s injury crisis, it is crucial that Ben Davies is allowed sufficient time to recover fully. Rushing him back too soon could risk aggravating his hamstring problem, potentially sidelining him for an extended period. Postecoglou’s cautious approach reflects the importance of prioritizing the player’s long-term fitness over short-term gains.

As Tottenham prepares to face Wolves, the potential return of Davies will provide a morale boost for both the team and the fans. His experience and composure at the back could prove invaluable as Spurs aim to regain their defensive solidity.

The injury crisis at Tottenham has exposed the club’s lack of depth in key positions, particularly in defense. While the return of Ben Davies is a step in the right direction, the team must continue to navigate a packed fixture schedule with limited resources.

Postecoglou’s side has shown resilience in challenging circumstances, but consistent performances will be essential to climb the Premier League table and make an impact in domestic competitions. As the January transfer window approaches, Tottenham may need to explore reinforcements to address their defensive vulnerabilities and provide additional support to the squad.

Ben Davies’ return to training marks a positive development in what has been a difficult season for Tottenham. While the team continues to grapple with injuries and inconsistent performances, the experienced defender’s recovery offers hope for improved stability in the coming weeks. With crucial fixtures on the horizon, Postecoglou will rely on players like Davies to step up and help Spurs turn their season around.