Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi has handed Spurs a timely injury boost after revealing Dominic Solanke could return sooner than expected in the club’s fight against relegation.
Initially, fears grew around the striker’s hamstring injury after he limped off during Tottenham’s crucial win over Wolves, with reports suggesting his season could already be over.
However, momentum has now shifted positively, with De Zerbi confirming the England forward is making rapid progress in recovery.
Speaking ahead of Spurs’ clash against Leeds United, the Italian manager admitted Monday’s fixture may arrive too soon for Solanke, but he remains optimistic about a possible comeback against Chelsea later this month.
“Dominic Solanke is improving very quickly,” said De Zerbi.
“I don’t know if he can be available [against Leeds]. We hope for the next game in Stamford Bridge.”
Tottenham currently sit just one point above the relegation zone, meaning every remaining fixture could prove decisive in their survival battle.
Consequently, Solanke’s potential return ahead of the trip to Stamford Bridge on May 19 could provide a major lift for the North London side.
Meanwhile, De Zerbi is still being forced to navigate several injury setbacks within his squad.
First-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario remains sidelined after undergoing minor hernia surgery in March, meaning Antonin Kinsky is expected to continue between the posts.
“He is not ready yet,” De Zerbi said of Vicario.
“I don’t know what will be the plan. He is suffering because he would like to help the team and his teammates, but he is not available yet.”
In addition, James Maddison is also unavailable for now, although De Zerbi confirmed Spurs have avoided any fresh injury blows ahead of their crucial run-in.
The Tottenham boss has already been dealing with long-term absences involving Xavi Simons, Mohammed Kudus and Cristian Romero, making squad depth increasingly important as Spurs continue their battle to stay in the Premier League.
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