Tottenham Hotspur Manager Ange Postecoglou Aims for Key Player Returns in January

James Maddison and Micky van de Ven Making Progress in Rehabilitation

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou is optimistic about the potential return of key players in January. James Maddison and Micky van de Ven are currently undergoing rehabilitation and could be back on the field by the end of next month. Another player, Rodrigo Bentancur, may also make a comeback around the same time. Additionally, Ryan Sessegnon, who has been sidelined for the entire season, has resumed training and will be gradually reintegrated into the team. Postecoglou can also count on the availability of Giovani Lo Celso and young defender Ashley Phillips for tomorrow’s game against Everton.

Uncertain Return Dates for Long-Term Absentees

Postecoglou admitted that it is challenging to provide an exact return date for the players who have been out for an extended period. He stated, “(Maddison and Van de Ven) are both in rehab and neither of them are anywhere near training with the first team at the moment. If you look at timelines, Micky and Madders sustained their injuries in the same game. Micky might be slightly ahead of schedule compared to Madders. Both are expected to return in January, similar to Bentancur.”

The manager emphasized that he is not withholding information intentionally but rather that the final phase of recovery can either accelerate or experience delays. He explained, “Until I see them out with us, it’s hard for me to say.”

Cautious Approach with Ryan Sessegnon

Regarding Ryan Sessegnon, Postecoglou mentioned that the player is still a few weeks away from full fitness. The manager emphasized the need for caution when reintegrating Sessegnon into the team. He said, “With him, it’s a little bit different. We have to be really careful about when we reintegrate him. He’s doing his work and participating in training sessions with the smaller groups, so we’ll continue to monitor his progress.”

With the potential return of these key players, Tottenham Hotspur fans can look forward to a strengthened squad in the upcoming matches.

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(Alex Pantling/Getty Images)