Toby Alderweireld has revealed on Twitter that his injury is a serious one after breaking down in Tottenham’s 3-1 Champions League win against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
The centre-back limped out of the Wembley clash after just 24 minutes clutching his hamstring following an attempted sprint, with the scoreline still 0-0.
Alderweireld reported on his personal Twitter account in the aftermath of the match that “will come back stronger” in a clear indication that he is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
I will come back stronger ???????? Well done tonight lads???? #COYS pic.twitter.com/7xLFhSsHdy
— Alderweireld Toby (@AlderweireldTob) November 1, 2017
Moussa Sissoko replaced Alderweireld as Eric Dier dropped back into the three-man backline and Tottenham went on to secure a memorable triumph, courtesy of a Dele Alli double and a Christian Eriksen goal.
Hamstring injuries normally require a minimum of three weeks recovery and Alderweireld’s Twitter update suggests he will miss not only this weekend’s Premier League home clash against Crystal Palace, but also the north London derby against Arsenal on 18 November.
OPINION
This is a shattering blow for Tottenham. Alderweireld has started all but one of Spurs’ fixtures across all competitions this season and his status as one of Europe’s outstanding centre-backs is without question. Indeed, Jose Mourinho claimed in the wake of Manchester United’s win last weekend that Tottenham’s defence was the best in Europe. Alderweireld is a key component, and he will be sorely missed over the coming weeks.