Tottenham Hotspur prepare for a Premier League home fixture against Brentford this weekend, with manager Thomas Frank set for an emotional reunion against his former employers. The clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium comes amid a significant injury crisis for both sides, with a combined nine players confirmed as unavailable.
Brentford's Injury Blow and Boosts
The visiting Bees have been dealt a severe long-term setback with attacking midfielder Fabio Carvalho ruled out after suffering an ACL injury. Manager Keith Andrews confirmed the player's successful operation at the end of November, stating Carvalho now faces a lengthy rehabilitation process.
Further bad news for Brentford involves summer signing Antoni Milambo, who is also sidelined with a serious knee issue requiring anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Midfielder Josh DaSilva continues to work on his fitness and will not feature.
However, there is positive news in defence, with Aaron Hickey fit to play. Additionally, winger Reiss Nelson is available again after being ineligible to face his parent club, Arsenal, in midweek.
Spurs' Lengthy Absence List
Thomas Frank reported no fresh injury concerns following Spurs' 2-2 draw at Newcastle United, a match where defender Cristian Romero scored twice. However, the North London club's treatment room remains busy.
Frank was coy on the immediate returns of striker Dominic Solanke and winger Dejan Kulusevski, stating he would provide updates only when they are close to rejoining squad training. "When they are ready to really be close to being involved in the squad, then I will give more information," the Dane said.
The most significant long-term absence is playmaker James Maddison, who will not return until next season after undergoing surgery for a ruptured ACL in August. Defenders Radu Dragusin and Kota Takai, along with midfielder Yves Bissouma, are also unavailable. Takai is back in training but is not yet considered match-fit.
A Special Dugout Reunion
The match holds particular significance for Thomas Frank, who spent nine years at Brentford before his summer move to replace Ange Postecoglou at Spurs. He acknowledged the emotional weight of the fixture, describing it as "a little bit more special".
"I'd been there for nine years. That's almost a quarter of my life," Frank reflected. "I had a fantastic time there, enjoyed every second of it. There's a lot of people I haven't seen for a long time... so that will be special."
The match comes with Spurs languishing in 11th place in the Premier League table after 14 games, seeking consistency under their new manager against a familiar foe.
Confirmed players ruled out:
- Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)
- Antoni Milambo (Brentford)
- Josh DaSilva (Brentford)
- Dominic Solanke (Tottenham)
- Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)
- James Maddison (Tottenham)
- Radu Dragusin (Tottenham)
- Yves Bissouma (Tottenham)
- Kota Takai (Tottenham)
