Ange Postecoglou handed fresh boost as 27-year-old confirms readiness ahead of Brighton Premier League clash

Tottenham midfielder has dropped the biggest hint that he will be available to play against his former side Brighton this weekend after returning from the AFCON. 

The Mali midfielder has not played for Spurs since his sending-off against Nottingham Forest, his second red card of the season. Spurs won that game 2-0 and his departure for the AFCON means this weekend is the first time he will be available for selection. 

He posted a picture on his Instagram page expressing his delight after training on Thursday. Bissouma wrote on his page: "I'm so happy to be back and enjoy this game again, see you soon." 

There had been concerns over his availability due to contracting Malaria while away at the AFCON but he's left little doubts now after returning to training at Hotspur Way and his eagerness to get straight back into it will delight manager Ange Postecoglou.

Bissouma with a point to prove

The 27-year-old did not enjoy the best of AFCON as injury and illness meant he started only two games for Mali who crashed out at the quarter-final stage. He is also the only Spurs player to have been sent off twice this season and the team have somewhat learnt to cope without his influence.

Rodrigo Bentancur, Oliver Skipp and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg have all impressed in his absence while Pape Matar Sarr who has also returned from the Ivory Coast will compete for a spot this weekend. 

Bissouma was integral when Spurs had that storming start to the season, winning eight of their first 10 league games, but his suspension and dip in form led to varied results and other midfielders have stepped up lately.

He will be eager to regain his spot and there is no better place to start than at home against his former club, Brighton and Hove Albion.