Following Dominic Solanke’s return to training this week, Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou has revealed that the forward is not too far away from a return.
For the past month, Tottenham Hotspur have been without Dominic Solanke, their leading striker. Spurs’ 1-0 defeat against Manchester City marked the tenth match he has missed since sustaining a muscle injury in training back in January.
His absence has been keenly felt, with Spurs lacking a focal point in attack. The game against the reigning champions was a prime example.
On Wednesday evening, the Lilywhites created two big chances and generated an expected goal (xG) of 1.33, yet they failed to find the back of the net.
Ange Postecoglou provides update on Solanke’s return
Of course, before Tottenham’s clash against Manchester City, Dominic Solanke was seen training outdoors at Hotspur Way, a promising sign that hints his return is imminent.
However, following the match, Postecoglou has now offered further insight into the striker’s progress, stating that he could be back in action soon.
Speaking to Football.London, the Spurs boss said: “Yeah, absolutely, Dom and Richy, and look, Mathys is working really hard but we are asking him to do a massive job for us at this level.
“He is probably one that did need a rest because he has come in and played every game. It will be good to get Dom back in there.
“When he was playing for us, he was hard to stop. You can see the benefit of them having Erling in their side, so hopefully, Dom is not too far away.”
The impact of Dominic Solanke’s absence
Tottenham have undoubtedly missed Solanke’s presence up front. While Mathys Tel has worked hard to fill the role, he has struggled to cope with the physical demands of English football.
The absence of a proper target man has also affected Spurs tactically, reducing their ability to play direct balls and capitalise on attacking movements.
Having a natural striker back in the squad could make a huge difference, not only in terms of goals but also in how the team builds its attacks.
Earlier this week the Tottenham manager also stated Solanke could make a return in ten days time, which means there is a chance he features on Thursday against AZ Alkmaar.