Tottenham set for double fitness boost before World Cup break

Tottenham look set for a double fitness boost this winter.

Antonio Conte’s men have enjoyed a solid start to the season, sitting five points behind leaders Arsenal, albeit they have played one game less than the top two. Some have spoken about Spurs as title contenders this term, but slip ups here and there are costing them in their bid to keep up with Arsenal and Manchester City.

Though, injuries have been part of the equation, with Tottenham losing Dejan Kulisevski to injury in September. Kulisevski is a key part of Conte’s plans, backing up Harry Kane having played a big role in the top four finish last season following his arrival on an 18-month loan from Juventus.

To make things worse, Tottenham also lost Richarlison in mid-October, all-but reducing their striking options to one - Kane. Richarlison enjoyed a fine start to his first season in north London, scoring twice and assisting three times. But he has also been sidelined, facing a race against time to make it back to the World Cup, where he is set to represent Brazil.

But there is good news, according to the Evening Standard, who say both players could return before the World Cup break later on this month. The report claims both players could return ahead of Tottenham’s final game before the break, against Leeds United on December 12.

That could be a huge boost for Tottenham, who are currently only able to call upon the likes of Lucas Moura and Bryan Gil as attacking alternatives, beyond the obvious Kane and Son Heung-min. There is a question, however, over whether Tottenham will play Richarlison in that final game before the World Cup, given they will be fresh back from injury, should things go well.

Kulisevski will not go to the World Cup, with Sweden not qualifying, but Richarlison will be desperate not to pick up an injury in the final game before heading to his first World Cup. It may benefit both club and player to wait to be safe.