Tottenham Hotspur has confirmed that Dutch centre-back, Micky van de Ven, is back in first-team training. This news comes as a significant boost for the team ahead of their Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool.
Van de Ven had been sidelined due to a hamstring injury he sustained during the defeat to Chelsea in early December. His absence, coupled with that of Cristian Romero who was also unavailable during this period, left Spurs struggling without their key defensive duo. The team managed only one win out of eight Premier League matches since then.
However, recent footage released by the club shows Van de Ven actively participating in training alongside his teammates. He appeared to be moving well as he engaged in some defensive drills.
Update on fitness levels
Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou provided an update on Van de Ven and Romero's fitness after his side’s defeat to Leicester City last Sunday.
Tottenham manager, Ange Postecoglou, said:
“There are definitely a couple getting close, Micky and Cuti, they’ll be training with the group, and even just having them training is great.
“There are another couple who are not too far off, on the horizon as well, so that will definitely help.”
The club will likely exercise caution reintegrating the centre-back pair into the side considering their recent injuries. However, there's no denying that Postecoglou desperately needs them back on board given how stretched his squad currently is. Spurs are facing a crucial run of fixtures which could define their season trajectory. They are set to travel to Anfield on February 6th for the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final tie where they will defend a 1-0 lead against Liverpool FC.
Just three days later, Postecoglou will lead his side against Aston Villa in the fourth round of FA Cup competition - another critical match-up where having a strong defence will be crucial.
Importance of Van de Ven and Romero
The importance of Van de Ven and Romero to Tottenham's defensive line cannot be overstated. Postecoglou is well aware that they are critical to the club’s hopes of progressing in the cups.
While Spurs can ill afford to lose either player again due to injury, their return could provide the much-needed boost for the team as they navigate through these important fixtures.
Micky van de Ven's return to training is a significant step forward for Tottenham Hotspur. His presence on the pitch will undoubtedly strengthen their defence and increase their chances of success in upcoming matches.
