Why 26-year-old Tottenham midfielder has been playing with a 'broken foot'

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur says he can't stop playing for three to four weeks after injuring his foot in training last month. The 26-year-old revealed in an interview back home in Uruguay that he's been playing with a broken phalanx but just could not afford another month out. 

Last season, Bentancur missed a total of 36 games for club and country due to a cruciate ligament tear. This season he was out for close to two months for a torn ankle ligament and admitted he just could not afford to be out for another month. 

The midfielder told Polideportivo via ESPN: "I broke it two or three weeks ago, but I’m still playing the same. I broke my phalanx (foot). I had to stop for three or four weeks for it to knit up, and it was impossible. 

"It was before the game against Crystal Palace in training, but here I go, recovering. Once I warm up, I forget,”

Tottenham need Bentancur back to his best

Spurs missed an opportunity to jump into fourth in the Premier League at Fulham. Ange Postecoglou's side were deservedly beaten and key players like Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr looked off-colour. 

All hope is not lost though with Villa only managing a draw at West Ham but players like Bentancur who was so influential under former manager Antonio Conte will have to rediscover his best form and challenge for a starting slot. 

This season he's only managed just one goal and without an assist. He's not one to always score but he's got the ability to progress the ball and keep possession. Tottenham are looking to beat Villa to Champions League football, and the former Juventus man will hope to regain his spot in the starting eleven and his fitness which has threatened his progress.