Thomas Frank is running out of options as Spurs injuries bite – who is out and when will they return?

Tottenham's recent Premier League games have brought more than just tough results. Spurs are suffering a series of significant injury blows that are shaping their season. From long-term absences to fresh knocks picked up in high-intensity matches, the growing injury list is influencing team selection, tactical plans, and even Spurs' table postion.

Here's a breakdown of the current injury list, what we know about each player and how their absence impacts Frank's side.

 

Joao Palhinha
Palhinha missed the West Ham match after picking up a knock in training. The club hasn't fully disclosed the problem, but it doesn't appear serious. A return date remains unclear, though it's not thought to be long-term.

Palhinha's absence weakens Spurs defensively in midfield. His ball-winning and positional discipline are key in shielding the back line, particularly against physical or counter-attacking sides.

 

Archie Gray
Gray was forced off at half-time against West Ham with a suspected knee problem. He'd been filling in for Palhinha, and the issue hasn't been formally diagnosed yet. He could be out for up to eight weeks.

A blow to Spurs' depth. Gray's versatility and composure have made him a reliable option in multiple roles, and losing him limits rotation in midfield during a demanding period.

 

Ben Davies
Davies was stretchered off inside the opening 20 minutes against West Ham after what appeared to be a serious leg problem. He was given oxygen on the pitch and later carried off. The club has since confirmed he suffered a fractured ankle and will require surgery.

The West Ham game was just the second start Davies has made for the Lilywhites all season. With the Welsh defender now facing a lengthy spell out, Postecoglou will need to reshuffle his back line and find another solution to cover the role Davies had only just stepped into.

 

Rodrigo Bentancur
Bentancur suffered a hamstring problem in the match against Bournemouth and has since undergone surgery. While no official return date has been confirmed, he could be targeting a comeback around April 2026.

Bentancur's absence has had a significant impact in midfield, and many believe it was what prompted the signing of Conor Gallagher.

 

Richarlison
Richarlison picked up a hamstring strain after just 31 minutes against Aston Villa in their 2-1 FA Cup third-round defeat. He's expected to be out for seven weeks (from 10 January), so he'll miss the whole of February, which includes both Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

His absence removes a key physical presence from the attack. Richarlison's pressing, aerial threat, and willingness to occupy defenders give Spurs a different dimension, particularly when chasing games or playing more directly.

 

Mohammed Kudus
Kudus suffered a muscle problem against Sunderland two weeks ago and has been undergoing treatment since. He's expected to remain out until after the international break in March.

Kudus' pace and directness offer Spurs unpredictability in wide areas. Without him, they lose one of their most explosive attacking options, especially against deep defensive blocks.

 

James Maddison
Maddison has been out since before the season began after suffering an ACL tear during a pre-season tour in Korea. His recovery is progressing well, and while no firm return date has been set, a late spring comeback remains possible.

 

Dejan Kulusevski
Kulusevski has been out since April last year after suffering a complicated knee problem against Crystal Palace. He recently received an injection to help manage pain and is expected to return to light training in the coming weeks, with his progress monitored carefully.