Jan Vertonghen was absent as Tottenham drew 1-1 with Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon, resulting in Eric Dier keeping his place alongside Davinson Sanchez at centre-back. Tottenham confirmed ahead of the game that Vertonghen’s hamstring injury ruled him out of action, but he’s expected to return soon.
The 32-year-old is said to be undergoing ‘outdoor rehabilitation’, but he won’t be guaranteed a place in the side upon his return. Toby Alderweireld was an unused substitute on Saturday, so Vertonghen can’t take anything for granted. Dier impressed alongside Sanchez in Wednesday’s 4-0 win over FK Crvena Zvezda and was rewarded with another start at centre-back.
Vertonghen has made nine appearances in all competitions this season, conceding 18 goals and keeping only two clean sheets. He’s only been on the winning team just three times and isn’t being missed while recovering from injury.
Should Jan Vertonghen be left out of the starting lineup when fit?
Yes
No
The Belgian international was dropped by Mauricio Pochettino earlier in the campaign for after failing to impress in training and has been criticised by supporters for a number of below-par performances. Vertonghen’s deal is up in 2020 and Tottenham may now be happy to let him go.