Jan Vertonghen was absent for Tottenham’s 4-0 win over Crvena Zvezda in midweek, forcing Mauricio Pochettino to name Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez at centre-back. Spurs confirmed that Vertonghen is still recovering from a hamstring injury and isn’t expected to return until after the November international break.
The 32-year-old has made nine appearances in all competitions this season, the last of which came in Spurs’ first meeting with Crvena Zvezda (October 22) – the Lilywhites won 5-0 in North London. Vertonghen was an unused substitute in their 2-1 defeat to Liverpool (October 27) and missed Tottenham’s 1-1 draw with Everton (November 3).
He’s been ruled out of Saturday’s meeting with Sheffield United and will look to recover during the two-week break. Tottenham face West Ham United on November 23 and Vertonghen should be fit to feature. Whether Pochettino gives him the nod is another matter, however, as Dier impressed alongside Sanchez on Wednesday and could keep his place at centre-back.
Should Mauricio Pochettino stick with Eric Dier at centre-back when Jan Vertonghen returns?
Yes
No
Tottenham have conceded 18 goals in Vertonghen’s nine appearances, keeping only two clean sheets for their troubles. The Belgian international has been criticised for inconsistent form this season, so fans may not be too upset to be without him.