Richarlison sustains hamstring injury as Tottenham lose to Villa | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison pulled up with what looked like a hamstring injury during the FA Cup clash with Aston Villa in North London.

Spurs came into the game, hoping to put behind a poor run of form that had seen them muster only one win in six games.

However, Tottenham found themselves on the back foot as Villa smothered Thomas Frank’s side, especially in midfield.

Tottenham fell two goals behind as Emiliano Buendia and Morgan Rogers netted before the Europa League champions fought to get back into the game through Wilson Odobert.

Unfortunately for Spurs, Richarlison pulled close to the hour mark, forcing Frank to bring on Randal Kolo Muani.

Tottenham’s injury woes this term have been well-documented, continuing from last season.

They are currently without Lucas Bergvall, James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Mohammed Kudus.

Destiny Udogie and Dominic Solanke were only fit enough to start from the bench against Villa.

The loss of the Brazilian international (54 caps) is a massive blow for Spurs, who will likely be without their best-performing centre-forward for a significant time.

Richarlison has bagged eight goals and three assists in 30 appearances so far, but Frank will have to make do without his services in the meantime.

That absence puts the spotlight firmly on Solanke. Signed to be the focal point of this attack, the England international has yet to justify his £65 million price tag.

Injuries have disrupted any rhythm, and when fit, his performances have been functional rather than decisive.

But with Richarlison sidelined and options thinning fast, excuses are running out.

Frank needs Solanke to rediscover the sharpness and confidence that made him so effective at Bournemouth.

He needs to start pressing aggressively, occupying centre-backs and, most importantly, scoring goals.

Spurs’ season already feels like it’s teetering on the brink, and without a reliable presence up top, it risks getting even worse.

This is the moment Solanke has to step up to the plate.