Tottenham Hotspur dealt double injury blow ahead of Monaco clash | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur Facing Defensive Crisis Ahead of Monaco Clash

Tottenham Hotspur’s preparations for their European trip to Monaco have been overshadowed by growing injury concerns, with captain Cristian Romero and full-back Destiny Udogie both missing from Tuesday’s training session at Hotspur Way. Manager Thomas Frank will address the media later this evening, but early signs suggest his defensive headache is deepening.

Romero Setback Raises Major Concern

Romero, who had been due to start in the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, was withdrawn moments before kick-off after feeling discomfort during the warm-up. The Argentine had been managing an adductor issue in the build-up, and while he was initially included in the starting eleven, medical staff advised against risking further damage.

Speaking after that game, Thomas Frank described the problem as “minor,” but admitted uncertainty over his captain’s availability for the Monaco fixture. “We’ll assess him again, but at this stage, I can’t say whether he’ll make it,” said Frank. His absence in consecutive European fixtures would be a significant blow to Spurs’ ambitions, particularly given his leadership role and influence in the back line.

Photo: IMAGO

Udogie Adds to Tottenham Hotspur Injury Woes

Destiny Udogie’s situation compounds Tottenham’s defensive problems. The Italian full-back sustained a knee injury while on international duty earlier this month and has yet to rejoin full training. His pace and overlapping runs down the left have been vital in Frank’s system, and without him, Spurs lose a key outlet in transition play.

Both Romero and Udogie were absent from the squad that trained on Tuesday morning, fuelling speculation that neither will travel to France. With defensive options already depleted, Frank faces a selection dilemma as Tottenham Hotspur continue their Champions League campaign.

Depth Tested as Youth Steps Up

Tottenham’s bench against Aston Villa told the story. Jun’ai Byfield, a 16-year-old academy prospect who turns 17 in December, was the only available defender among the substitutes. Ben Davies remains sidelined after picking up a knock while on duty with Wales, and both Radu Dragusin and Kota Takai have struggled with fitness issues, leaving them out of the Champions League squad for the league phase.

This shortage may force tactical adjustments from Frank, with midfielders Joao Palhinha or Archie Gray potentially being asked to fill defensive roles. It would be far from ideal, but necessity may drive innovation in the short term.

Frank’s Balancing Act

Thomas Frank’s calm demeanour has been a feature of his early tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, yet this injury update will test that composure. Spurs have made a promising start to the season under his leadership, but a fragile defensive unit threatens to derail their European ambitions. The next 48 hours will determine whether Frank can field anything close to his first-choice back line in Monaco or whether Tottenham must once again rely on youth and improvisation to stay competitive.