Tottenham could be set to welcome a key player in the near future, which could prove to be a huge asset for under-pressure manager Igor Tudor.
Tudor turn the corner as Tottenham battle for a crucial Nottingham Forest clash
There’s been a blur lately, moments that have given Tottenham fans enough reason to believe that the worst may not happen.
Richarlison’s equalizer at Anfield at Anfield. Xavi Simons hammers home to Atlético Madrid, sending Spurs fans into chaos as Champions League exit confirmed.
In two games, under Tudor, something seems to have moved.
But let no one be deceived into thinking that the danger has passed. Spurs are still sitting in 16th place in the Premier League, one place and one point above Sunday’s rivals Forest.
They also remain the only top-flight club yet to win a league game in 2026 – with five draws and seven defeats in 12 games this year.
Only three clubs in Premier League history have endured a winless start to the new year, and all three were relegated.
That is the context in which Sunday’s game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium needs to be understood. This is not a game about momentum. This is the battle of life.
Igor Tudor has gifted Tottenham an injury boost ahead of Nottingham Forest as club news emerges
Spurs are set to have the base available.
The forest comes in the same way. Vitor Pereira has managed four draws and two defeats in the top flight since taking over – no home wins from the Portuguese.
His side are winless in four league games under Pereira and have conceded three of the most goals in the division.
They beat Spurs 3-0 at the City Ground back in December, and they won’t come to north London scared. They put the games ahead of their Europa League campaign too, with Pereira resting nine players for Thursday’s game against Midtjylland.
That tells you everything about how badly they need something on Sunday.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Friday, Tudor was measured but buoyed by the club’s spirit after Atletico’s win.
He described the rare encounter between players and fans and urged everyone to stay connected as they look to build on the two improved performances, or Premier League points that have yet to follow.
He also presented the news of the welcome group.
Dominic Solanke missed training on Friday with a groin problem, but Tudor confirmed the striker is expected to join the squad on Saturday and should be available to start.
That will be important – Solanke’s movement and physical presence are key to how Tudor want to play.
He also said that James Maddison may return before the end of the season, which will come as a strong team for the Lilywhites.
While Guglielmo Vicario will undergo hernia surgery on Monday, the Italian is expected to start against Forest and face the procedure, so that Spurs will not be easy on goal.
Tottenham star Mohammed Kudus is ready to return after the international break
As relayed by reporter Tom Barclay from Tudor’s press conference, there is long-term reason for optimism too.
Mohammed Kudus, who has been injured four times, is said to be doing very well and may return to action after the international break.
Rodrigo Bentancur is also making progress with his recovery.
Well, first, on Sunday.
Win and Tudor’s side will open up a four-point cushion over their rivals. Loss, and depression sets in again.
Then three weeks pass before they play another league game. This is a long time for the bottom three to stay.
A small revival should be about something more, and it should start now.
Tottenham are now set to launch a move to sign a “fantastic” Ligue 1 star to replace Guglielmo Vicario
The Lilywhites are already focused on development.
