Roberto De Zerbi rules key Spurs figure out of Sunderland clash in major injury update | OneFootball

Roberto De Zerbi has ruled first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario out of Sunday’s meeting with Sunderland after surgery on a pre-existing hernia. Rodrigo Bentancur is also unavailable, with Mohammed Kudus already sidelined earlier in the week.

According to Sunderland Echo, Vicario underwent the procedure during the recent break and, while Spurs hope he returns this month, the Stadium of Light fixture comes too soon. De Zerbi said Bentancur is training only partially with the group and insisted he still has enough options.

The head coach admitted he has not had much luck, noting Kudus had been central to his plans. He highlighted attacking depth, naming Kolo Muani, who he accepts is not enjoying a strong season but remains a good player, as well as Mathys Tel, whom he had wanted at Marseille, plus Xavi, Richarlison and Solanke.

With Spurs possibly in the relegation zone by kick-off, De Zerbi said he retains strong belief in the squad after watching many Tottenham games. He pointed to young talents including Bergvall, Archie Gray and Xavi Simons, and experienced figures such as Van de Ven, Romero, Porro and Solanke. He wants to see again the Gallagher he admired at Chelsea and aims to help his players enjoy the ball over the final seven games.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris said Robin Roefs is back in contention. Jocelin, Romaine, Bertrand and Simon are out, while Ballard and Nilson are close but likely to miss Tottenham. The rest of the squad is available.

Source: Sunderland Echo