Tottenham Hotspur have received a major boost ahead of their Premier League showdown with Crystal Palace, with head coach Roberto De Zerbi confirming that James Maddison and Destiny Udogie are both available for selection.
Spurs will welcome Palace on Saturday as they look to extend their winning run following impressive victories over Coventry City and Chelsea.
The availability of the two players comes as welcome news for De Zerbi, who has been dealing with several injury problems within his squad.
MADDISON AVAILABLE AFTER CHELSEA INJURY SCARE
Tottenham supporters were concerned when Maddison was forced off during the 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The midfielder had only recently returned to the starting lineup after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, making his early substitution particularly worrying.
Maddison marked his return against Coventry City with an impressive goal in Tottenham’s 3-1 victory before featuring again against Chelsea.
However, De Zerbi has now confirmed that the England international is available for the Crystal Palace encounter.
Although Maddison has not trained at full intensity throughout the week, he remains an option for Saturday’s match.
The manager is expected to carefully assess his condition before deciding whether to start him or introduce him from the bench.
UDOGIE ALSO RETURNS TO CONTENTION
Tottenham have received further positive news with Destiny Udogie also declared available after missing the previous two matches with a knee problem.
The Italian defender’s return gives De Zerbi another option at left-back as Spurs prepare for an important London derby.
However, the manager remains cautious about Udogie’s fitness, particularly because of his recent injury difficulties.
Tottenham are keen to avoid rushing either player back into action and risk another setback.
FOUR PLAYERS STILL UNAVAILABLE
Despite the encouraging updates, Tottenham will still be without four players for the Crystal Palace clash.
Tosin Adarabioyo, Lucas Bergvall, Mykhailo Mudryk and Savio remain unavailable as they continue recovering from their respective injury problems.
Their absences leave De Zerbi with some selection challenges, although the return of Maddison and Udogie provides a welcome boost.
SPURS TARGET THIRD CONSECUTIVE VICTORY
Tottenham head into the fixture with renewed confidence after defeating Coventry City 3-1 and Chelsea 2-0 in their last two matches.
De Zerbi will be hoping his team can maintain that momentum and secure another important three points against Crystal Palace.
Maddison’s creativity could prove crucial in unlocking Palace’s defence, while Udogie’s availability offers additional strength on the left flank.
However, the biggest decision facing De Zerbi will be how much playing time to give both returning players.
Tottenham supporters will now be hoping Maddison and Udogie can help the club make it three consecutive victories.
