Tottenham given major injury boost ahead of Manchester United clash

The Spurs will have a key defender back for their trip to Manchester this weekend.

Tottenham have received a significant squad boost ahead of their crucial clash against Manchester United on Sunday, as defender Cristian Romero returns to full training.

The Argentine centre-back has been sidelined since the 2-1 victory over Everton on December 23 due to a hamstring strain. Initially expected to miss four to five weeks of action, Romero’s return comes as a timely relief for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou.

Romero’s absence, coupled with injuries to defensive partner Micky van de Ven, forced Tottenham to deploy a makeshift central defence featuring full-backs Ben Davies and Emerson Royal. With the vice-captain’s return, Postecoglou gains a key leader in the backline for the upcoming match at Old Trafford.

The Australian manager is also buoyed by the availability of the fit-again Van de Ven, who returned to the matchday squad during the FA Cup third-round victory over Burnley last Friday. Additionally, new loan signing Timo Werner and potential debutant Radu Dragusin could provide fresh options for Spurs.

However, there are concerns over midfielder Giovani Lo Celso, who sustained a muscle issue against Burnley and is expected to miss the Manchester United clash. Despite the challenges, a victory for Tottenham would propel them into the Premier League’s top four, surpassing north London rivals Arsenal, who are currently on a winter break until January 20.