Tottenham Hotspur has received a much-needed injury boost as two key players return to training just in time for Thursday’s Europa League clash against Hoffenheim.
Vice-captain Cristian Romero’s participation in Wednesday’s session has lifted spirits among the squad, offering manager Ange Postecoglou a potential boost as his team heads to Germany.
Romero and Bentancur Back in Training
Romero, who has struggled with toe and groin injuries over the past couple of months, has only made one appearance for Spurs during that time.
His return to training provides Postecoglou with a much-needed option, especially after Tottenham’s 3-2 defeat to Everton on Sunday, which increased external pressure on the manager.
Despite this, Postecoglou continues to have the support of the club’s board.
Alongside Romero, midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was also back in action, participating in training after recovering from a serious head injury.
Bentancur had been sidelined following a sickening blow during a 1-0 win over Liverpool on January 8, which had kept him out due to concussion protocols.
With his return to full fitness, Bentancur looks set to make the trip to Hoffenheim.
Limited Options for Postecoglou Ahead of Hoffenheim Match
While these two returns are a relief, Postecoglou’s squad remains thin.
A number of players are still unavailable for selection, including new January signing Antonin Kinsky, Djed Spence, Sergio Reguilon, and 18-year-old Yang Min-hyeok, who are not registered in the club’s Europa League squad for the group stage.
In addition, key players like Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie, Yves Bissouma, Wilson Odobert, Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner, and Dominic Solanke will all miss out on the crucial match.
This leaves Postecoglou with limited choices as Spurs approach a vital fixture in the Europa League, with at least 12 first-team players unavailable.
Spurs Must Win to Boost Europa League Hopes
Tottenham currently sits ninth in their Europa League group and needs a victory over Hoffenheim on Thursday to strengthen their hopes of finishing in the top eight.
A win would secure their spot in the last 16 of the competition, allowing them to avoid an additional two-legged knockout tie in February.
With a depleted squad, the upcoming match is crucial for Postecoglou and his team to keep their European dreams alive.
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