Tottenham Hotspur faces a challenging situation after a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, leaving them in the relegation zone. The team's growing injury list, including Cristian Romero, adds to the urgency as they seek to regain momentum.
Tottenham Hotspur injury latest: Cristian Romero, Mohammed Kudus and more
Roberto De Zerbi’s start at Tottenham Hotspur could hardly have been more sobering. A 1-0 defeat at Sunderland set the tone, leaving Spurs rooted in the relegation zone and chasing momentum as the season edges towards its decisive phase. Results elsewhere have done little to help, and the growing injury list only sharpens the sense of urgency in north London.
The biggest immediate concern surrounds Cristian Romero, whose influence extends well beyond his role at centre back. Forced off after a heavy collision with Antonin Kinsky, the Spurs captain cut a frustrated figure as he limped away from the action.
De Zerbi did not hide his concern. “I hope for us it’s not too important, because he’s a crucial player, a good guy, a top player, a big personality and leader.” Pressed further, he added, “Maybe yes, but I don’t know.”
Romero’s potential absence would leave a leadership vacuum as much as a tactical one. Kevin Danso stepped in admirably, yet Spurs rely on Romero’s aggression and organisational authority. A possible return against Brighton offers some hope, though much depends on the severity of the injury.
Further forward, the situation involving Mohammed Kudus remains frustratingly unclear. Signed with expectation in the summer, Kudus has struggled to establish rhythm due to a persistent quad issue.
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Just as he appeared to be nearing a comeback, a setback has pushed his return into uncertain territory. Reports suggest further surgery could be required, leaving De Zerbi without one of his most dynamic attacking options for the foreseeable future. Spurs have confirmed he will be sidelined longer than anticipated, a blow that limits creativity in the final third.
There is, at least, a more encouraging update regarding Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian goalkeeper continues his recovery from hernia surgery, which the club carefully scheduled during the international break to minimise disruption.
The aim remains a return within a month, with Brighton at home a realistic target. Vicario’s presence would restore a degree of stability between the posts, something Spurs have lacked in his absence.
Beyond the headline names, Tottenham Hotspur continue to navigate a challenging injury landscape. Rodrigo Bentancur edges closer to a return after hamstring surgery, while Dejan Kulusevski remains optimistic despite a long rehabilitation process.
Kulusevski addressed concerns directly, stating, “I understand that people were worried, but it was really for the wrong reason. It was really positive that I did this little procedure and that we were able to find the problem.”
Elsewhere, long term absentees such as James Maddison and Wilson Odobert are unlikely to feature again this season, while Ben Davies faces an uncertain future following a serious ankle injury.
For De Zerbi, the task is clear but demanding. Results must improve quickly, yet the available resources remain stretched. Tottenham Hotspur’s fight for survival may ultimately hinge not just on tactics, but on how swiftly key figures like Cristian Romero and Mohammed Kudus can return to action.
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