Tottenham vs Eintracht Frankfurt early injury news as 7 ruled out and 5 doubts
As Tottenham Hotspur prepare for their crucial Europa League quarter-final clash against Eintracht Frankfurt, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Ange Postecoglou’s side. With domestic form abandoning them this season, Thursday night’s first leg represents their last remaining path to European football next campaign.
While the competition’s history of underdog triumphs offers hope, Spurs face a formidable challenge against a Frankfurt side currently riding high in third place in the Bundesliga – despite showing recent vulnerabilities with two losses in their last three outings.
Postecoglou has confirmed some positive news on the fitness front ahead of the encounter. Both Destiny Udogie and Micky van de Ven, who were rested during the weekend’s Premier League action, are available for selection. “They’ve missed considerable football this year, so it made sense to preserve them,” the Australian manager explained.
Richarlison also edges closer to full involvement, with Postecoglou noting: “He’s progressing well through training and will feature more prominently moving forward.” These returns couldn’t come at a more opportune moment, with Spurs needing all hands on deck for their continental showdown.
However, the treatment room still claims several key figures. Dejan Kulusevski’s creative spark will be sorely missed as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury, with Postecoglou estimating the Swede remains “a couple of weeks away” from returning.
The devastating season-ending ACL injury to Radu Dragusin has left Tottenham short at the back, though van de Ven’s return offers timely reinforcement.
Frankfurt arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with their own selection headaches. The German outfit will be without several influential players, including striker Elye Wahi (knee) and midfield anchor Ellyes Skhiri (knee) until May.
Starting goalkeeper Kevin Trapp faces a late fitness test on a calf issue, while creative wide man Ansgar Knauff battles knee discomfort that makes him doubtful for the encounter.
The absence of Wahi particularly weakens Frankfurt’s attacking threat – the French forward has been instrumental in their Bundesliga campaign with his pace and movement. His potential replacement, Can Uzun, has been battling illness but may recover in time.
Frankfurt’s midfield options are further depleted with Dina Ebimbe struggling with abdominal problems and Timothy Chandler ruled out with a hip injury.
This clash presents an intriguing tactical battle between two sides craving European success. Tottenham will look to exploit Frankfurt’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly if Trapp is absent between the sticks.
Postecoglou’s men must capitalize on their opponents’ recent wobbles while overcoming their own inconsistent form. The return of van de Ven provides much-needed stability at the back, crucial for containing Frankfurt’s dangerous wing play.
For Spurs, this tie represents more than just progression in a competition – it’s about salvaging something from a turbulent season. The Europa League trophy offers not just prestige but a golden ticket back to the Champions League, bypassing their disappointing Premier League position.
With the second leg looming in Germany next week, establishing a strong home advantage could prove decisive.
As both teams grapple with injury setbacks, the outcome may hinge on which manager best adapts to their depleted resources. Postecoglou’s ability to reintegrate returning stars while compensating for absentees could define Tottenham’s European fate.
One thing is certain – in a competition renowned for its drama, this quarter-final promises to deliver edge-of-the-seat tension with continental dreams on the line.
The stage is set for Tottenham’s squad to prove their mettle. With Frankfurt weakened but dangerous, and Spurs desperate for redemption, this European night under the lights could become a defining moment in Postecoglou’s tenure – for better or worse.
As the Australian gamer often says, “We make our own luck.” Now would be the perfect time to start.