Tottenham receive triple injury boost ahead of Brentford Premier League opener
Tottenham have received a significant injury boost ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener against Brentford, with Mateus Fernandes, James Maddison and Destiny Udogie all returning to training.
Manager Roberto De Zerbi has faced a challenging pre-season while sweating over the fitness of several key first-team players.
However, the return of three crucial figures provides welcome relief for the north London club before their trip across the capital to the Gtech Community Stadium.
Udogie is being managed carefully following a succession of muscular issues during the previous campaign.
Similarly, the former Leicester City playmaker continues to build his match fitness after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury last summer.
Summer signing Fernandes joins training
New arrival Fernandes is also pushing for inclusion after recovering from a calf problem that disrupted his recent weeks.
The midfield trio’s availability gives De Zerbi important selection decisions as his side look to make an early statement.
Spurs are desperate to put last year’s dismal 17th-place finish firmly behind them following an aggressive period of investment.
The club’s hierarchy has backed their head coach heavily, spending £237m on six new players during the transfer window.
Van de Ven and Solanke remain doubtful
Despite the positive news, major concerns persist regarding the availability of central defender Micky van de Ven.
The Netherlands international was absent from training at Hotspur Way and seems highly unlikely to feature against the Bees.
Having recently signed a lucrative new contract, the Dutch centre-back missed all pre-season squads following his return from the World Cup.
Dominic Solanke is another major doubt for the opening weekend fixture.
The English striker was used sparingly during the summer schedule after missing most of last season with ankle and hamstring injuries.
Brentford chase European ambitions
Tottenham will face a stern test against a highly motivated home side on Saturday evening.
Under the guidance of Keith Andrews, Brentford are targeting European qualification for the first time in their history.
The hosts are aiming to build upon an incredibly impressive debut campaign under their current manager last term.