Tottenham striker Richarlison will miss up to seven weeks with a hamstring injury, leaving Spurs short in attack ahead of a key run of fixtures.
Tottenham Hotspur have been dealt a major blow after Richarlison was ruled out for up to seven weeks. The Brazil forward suffered a hamstring injury during Spurs’ FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa. He is expected to miss action until at least early March. His absence comes at a difficult moment for Thomas Frank’s side.
Richarlison has been Tottenham’s most reliable attacking outlet this season. The 28-year-old has scored seven goals in 21 Premier League appearances. Across all competitions, he has eight goals from 31 matches. Those numbers underline his importance to a struggling Spurs attack.
Thomas Frank confirmed the extent of the injury ahead of Saturday’s London derby with West Ham. The manager revealed the problem was picked up during the loss to Villa. Spurs were knocked out of the FA Cup in that match. It extended a poor run of form across competitions.
Tottenham have now won just one of their last seven matches. They currently sit 14th in the Premier League table. Pressure has been building around performances and results. Losing their top scorer only adds to the challenge.
Richarlison’s injury further reduces Tottenham’s attacking depth. Mohammed Kudus is already sidelined with a long-term issue. Brennan Johnson was sold to Crystal Palace earlier in the January transfer window. Frank now has limited choices in forward areas.
There was some positive news on the team sheet this week. Dominic Solanke returned from injury against Aston Villa. Frank also confirmed that Destiny Udogie could be involved this weekend. Midfielders Lucas Bergvall and Yves Bissouma are back available too.
Despite the setback, Frank played down the need for a quick transfer solution. He insisted Spurs will not sign players purely as short term cover. Any January addition must fit the club’s long-term plans. The manager stressed the importance of thinking beyond the next few months.
Spurs have already strengthened this window. England midfielder Conor Gallagher joined from Atletico Madrid in a deal worth around £35m. Frank described him as a top signing with leadership and Premier League experience. Gallagher could make his debut against West Ham.
Gallagher’s arrival addresses issues in midfield rather than attack. He brings energy, pressing ability, and goals from deeper positions. The 25-year-old has made 136 Premier League appearances. His experience could prove valuable during a difficult spell.
Tottenham are also adjusting behind the scenes. Former Netherlands defender John Heitinga has joined as an assistant coach. The club hopes the added experience will help stabilise performances. Results, however, remain the priority.
Richarlison’s injury highlights Spurs’ reliance on a small core of key individuals. His movement and finishing have often carried the attack. Without him, others must step up quickly. Solanke’s return could be vital in the coming weeks.
Gallagher’s integration will also be closely watched. His leadership may help lift intensity and belief. Frank faces a balancing act as he reshapes the side. The coming fixtures will test squad depth and mentality.
Tottenham host West Ham in a crucial London derby on Saturday before hosting Borussia Dortmund in midweek in the Champions League. The Hammers arrive with their own ambitions, looking to close the gap to 17th placed Nottingham Forest. Spurs need a response to halt their slide. With Richarlison out, solutions must come from within.
