Pochettino predicts ‘difficulty’ in strengthening Spurs

Ian Watson
Mauricio Pochettino Daniel Levy

Mauricio Pochettino has played down Tottenham’s chances of bringing in any new additions in the January transfer window.

All Spurs’ big six rivals have been looking to strengthen this month, with Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Everton all actively recruiting or seeking to complete deals.

But Spurs have been quiet and Pochettino isn’t optimistic of adding to his squad before the deadline in 12 days.

“To be honest it will be difficult,” he said.

“At some point you always dream but not too much exciting – if it happens, it happens, if not, we are happy with the squad.”

Pochettino was able to relay good news on the fitness of key defender Toby Alderweireld.

Spurs had expected Alderweireld to be out until February with a hamstring injury but Pochettino has indicated the Belgian is on track for an early comeback in the FA Cup next week against Newport.

Alderweireld has not played since pulling up against Real Madrid in the Champions League at the start of November.

His swift recovery is particularly timely for Tottenham, who play Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Juventus in the next four weeks.

Asked if Alderweireld could play in the FA Cup in eight days’ time, Pochettino said: “Maybe because we will have all the week for training so we will see if he can arrive in good condition to play.

“If all is well, the plan is he is going to do the warm-up with the team (on Saturday) and be integrated gradually with the group.

“We see next week if he can improve and then step by step build his fitness and be ready as soon as possible.”

Tottenham, however, could be without goalkeeper Hugo Lloris for Sunday’s trip to Southampton. A late decision will be made on the Frenchman, who has come down with flu.

If he fails to recover, Michel Vorm will be in line to make his first Premier League appearance since April last year.

Spurs will be looking to maintain momentum at St Mary’s, having won eight of their last 10 matches, to move within three points of the top four.

Danny Rose is still out with a knee injury while Harry Winks is also sidelined with a niggling ankle problem.

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