Tottenham Hotspur have received a late Christmas present ahead of a must-win Premier League clash wth Manchester United next week, as Toby Alderweireld has declared himself fit and ready to feature.
The Spurs centre-half has been on the sidelines for the last few months after pulling his hamstring against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Alderweireld is the rock that the formidable Tottenham defence is built on and the fans have been desperate for the Belgian to return to fitness.
With Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino revealing recently that the former Southampton enforcer has returned to first-team training, the 28-year-old has commented on his physical condition.
“I feel good. I feel fit. I’m strong. I feel ready to give 100 per cent again, like I always do,” Alderweireld told Sky Sports News.
“I worked very hard to come back to the training group as quickly as possible. Not one thing in my head is doubting about the injury.
“Now it’s up to me to prove that I’m ready again to the manager. It’s always up to the manager (if I play). I’m looking forward to give my all on the pitch.”
Tottenham’s next fixture is an FA Cup clash against Newport County this weekend, with Alderweireld seemingly destined to play a role in the game – most likely from the bench.
While Spurs must nurse the defender back to first-team action with care, the sight of the centre-half back in the club’s colours will be a massive relief for the supporters.
Alderweireld’s leadership, reading of the game and commitment would be a massive boost against United next Wednesday night – while crunch clashes against Liverpool, Arsenal and Juventus are all on the horizon for Tottenham also.
With Davinson Sanchez looking less-than-convincing at times in the 1-1 draw against Southampton on Sunday, bringing the giant Belgian back into the fold will be key if Spurs are to record positive results over the next month.
Tottenham boss Pochettino will also be given more flexibility in terms of his formation once Alderweireld is available, with the temptation to resort to three at the back again.