Antonio Conte has confirmed that Tottenham have suffered an injury blow ahead of Sunday’s big London derby against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Spurs will head to west London off the back of their thumping win over Southampton on the opening weekend of the new Premier League season, a victory that put them top the table – albeit one game in.
And while Chelsea also won at Everton in their opener, it was done in a very different fashion as they ground out a result on Merseyside.
Tottenham head to Stamford Bridge having recorded just one win there in Premier League history. And it looks like they will have to make do without Clement Lenglet for the game.
The summer signing came on for Ben Davies in the closing stages of the win over Southampton. He is eventually expected to take over the left-sided role in Conte’s back three, but it won’t be just yet.
The Italian confirmed that the Barcelona loanee looks set to miss a couple of games, starting on Sunday.
“About my injuries, a little problem with Clement Lenglet,” the Italian told reporters on Friday.
“I don’t think he is available for the game against Chelsea or for sure the next game against Wolverhampton (Wanderers).
“It’s a little problem of fatigue and he’s a bit tired in his adductor.
“Nothing serious, only a precaution but it’s not good to take a stupid risk for one game.”
Conte keeping fingers crossed over Lenglet injury
Conte will be looking to get Lenglet fully fit when the fixtures start to hit really hard, with Champions League and Carabao Cup action to come.
In the meantime, Davinson Sanchez will act as the main cover for the back three. However, rumours were circulating on Friday that AC Milan have switched their attention from Japhet Tanganga to the Colombian.
Conte is set to stick with the same starting XI for the game at Chelsea. Richarlison is, however, available again after suspension but will start on the bench.
Yves Bissouma and Ivan Perisic are both pushing for starts but are likely to have to bide their time.
