AliousTottenham Hotspur face a monumental challenge as they attempt to overturn a three-goal deficit against Atletico Madrid in Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League clash. Interim boss Igor Tudor has confirmed that January signing Conor Gallagher is a major doubt due to illness, although the return of Cristian Romero offers a timely boost.
Gallagher a major concern
Spurs are anxiously awaiting updates on Gallagher’s condition ahead of the decisive round-of-16 second leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The England international, who arrived from Atletico in a £35 million January move, missed training on Tuesday and was not involved in the weekend draw against Liverpool.
Tudor explained that the midfielder is battling respiratory issues and a viral infection, casting serious doubt over his availability. While the situation is not considered dangerous, his participation remains unlikely, with even a place on the bench uncertain.
Encouraging injury updates
Despite concerns over Gallagher, there is better news elsewhere. Promising Swedish youngster Lucas Bergvall has made an earlier-than-expected return to full training and could feature among the substitutes. Destiny Udogie is also back in contention after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Captain Romero has been cleared to play after completing concussion protocols following a head injury in the first leg, strengthening Spurs defensively. However, Joao Palhinha is still sidelined and is expected to return for the next match instead.
Van de Ven dismisses dressing-room talk
Off the pitch, Micky van de Ven rejected claims of unrest within the squad. Addressing speculation about players losing focus, the defender insisted such reports are unfounded, emphasizing the team’s unity despite a difficult run of results.
A huge task ahead
Spurs must produce something extraordinary to keep their European hopes alive. Trailing 5-2 on aggregate against Diego Simeone’s disciplined side, they face one of the toughest defensive setups in world football.
Under Tudor, the North London club have struggled for consistency, recording four defeats and a draw—including their recent point at Liverpool—leaving them with a steep uphill battle to turn the tie around.
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