Tottenham have once again turned to a familiar face from the past, inviting an award-winning player back to the stadium ahead of a crucial Premier League fixture.
There have been very few positives for Tottenham Hotspur this season as they continue to fight for their Premier League survival.
Spurs sit 18th in the Premier League table, two points inside the relegation zone, with just six games remaining to turn things around.
It marks a remarkable fall for a club that was competing for major honours not long ago. Injuries, lack of investment, managerial instability and poor performances on the pitch have all played a part in this decline.
Through it all, the fans have remained unwavering in their support, even if results have not reflected their loyalty.
With many supporters reminiscing about the Mauricio Pochettino era, it appears the club may be doing the same in its own way.
Erik Lamela latest former Spurs star invited back to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Tottenham have made a habit of inviting former players back to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this season, particularly figures from the Pochettino era.
Jan Vertonghen was present for the Manchester City fixture earlier this year, while Toby Alderweireld returned for the Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid.
Dele Alli was also invited for the North London derby in February, and Heung Min Son made an appearance during last year’s clash against Slavia Prague.
Now, Erik Lamela is the latest former Spurs player set to return, with the Argentine invited as a special guest for the upcoming match against Brighton.
Lamela made 257 appearances for Tottenham across eight years, earning a reputation as a fan favourite despite injury setbacks during his time in North London.
The Argentine is perhaps best remembered for his stunning rabona goal in the North London Derby in 2021, which earned him the Puskas Award. He later went on to win the Europa League with Sevilla 2 years later and is now part of their coaching setup.
Tottenham team news ahead of Roberto De Zerbi reunion with Brighton
Roberto De Zerbi will be without his captain Cristian Romero for the remainder of the season after the defender suffered an injury.
However, the Italian has received a boost ahead of facing his former club Brighton.
Rodrigo Bentancur has been declared fit and available, although De Zerbi stopped short of confirming whether he will start. Yves Bissouma is also fully fit and in contention.
James Maddison is nearing a return from his ACL injury, but De Zerbi has admitted he does not want to take any risks, suggesting it is better to manage his minutes carefully rather than rush him back.
Tottenham will still be without several key players for the must-win fixture, including Guglielmo Vicario, Mohammed Kudus, Ben Davies, Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert.