Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke will be out for approximately six weeks due to a knee injury, according to head coach Ange Postecoglou. This setback adds to the club’s growing list of injuries, which has left Spurs struggling for squad depth.
Solanke was one of 14 senior players unavailable for Tottenham’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim in the Europa League on Thursday. Postecoglou confirmed the striker is expected to return in early March, ruling him out of several key fixtures, including the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool and multiple Premier League matches.
“With Dom, the current estimate is around six weeks,” said Postecoglou. “Thankfully, no surgery is needed, but we’ll monitor his recovery. It might be shorter, but we’ll see how it progresses.”
Solanke’s absence leaves Spurs even thinner in attack, with forwards Timo Werner and Brennan Johnson also on the injury list.
Spurs lean on youth amid injury crisis
Tottenham’s injury troubles were evident against Hoffenheim, where Postecoglou could only name eight substitutes. The bench included two goalkeepers and five teenage players, highlighting the challenges faced by the squad.
Three teenagers were called into action during the match, including 17-year-old Callum Olusesi, who made his senior debut. Despite the pressure, Postecoglou praised the young players for their resilience and commitment in difficult circumstances.
“These guys are giving everything,” said Postecoglou. “We had five teenagers on the pitch in a critical European game, not a meaningless fixture. That shows their character and willingness to step up for the team.”
The head coach also expressed hope that players such as Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, and Cristian Romero, who are nearing a return, will provide much-needed reinforcements in the coming weeks.
Contrasting fortunes in Europe and the League
While Tottenham remains in a strong position in the Europa League, their domestic form tells a different story. Spurs are fourth in their group and can secure a knockout stage spot with a win against Elfsborg on matchday eight.
However, the team’s struggles in the Premier League are concerning. With just one win in their last ten league games, Tottenham has slipped to 15th in the table, sitting only eight points above the relegation zone.
Postecoglou acknowledged the challenges but commended his squad’s efforts. “The players are carrying the load during this tough period. We’re in a good position in Europe, and we’ll look to build on that momentum as we get some players back.”
As injuries continue to test their squad depth, Tottenham will need to rely on a mix of youth and experience to navigate the demanding fixtures ahead.
