Tottenham Hotspur’s injury woes this season have been relentless, with the absence of key players disrupting their momentum.
Among the significant blows has been the prolonged unavailability of their summer signing, Dominic Solanke, whose knee injury has sidelined him for longer than initially expected.
The 27-year-old forward, who made a club-record switch from AFC Bournemouth last August, was originally forecasted to return to training by mid-February.
However, sports scientist and physical therapy expert Dr Rajpal Brar has revealed that this timeline has now been pushed back, with Solanke unlikely to make his comeback until March.
Injury expert shares worrying Dominic Solanke update
Dr Brar suggested that based on the nature of the injury—described by manager Ange Postecoglou as a knee twist—it’s likely a Grade 2 ligament strain or a meniscus issue.
Although surgery isn’t required, these types of injuries often demand a more extended recovery period than initially projected.
Speaking to Tottenham News, the doctor commented:
“Based on the mechanism of the injury, knee twisting per Ange, this sounds like either a Grade 2 ligament injury or a meniscus injury.
“Initially, it sounded like would’ve been back in training by mid-February but he’s now set to be out longer than expected initially and does not seem likely to return until March.
“He’s not going to need surgery but it’s just the nature of these injuries.“
Solanke’s absence has undoubtedly been felt, as the striker had featured in 29 matches across all competitions before his setback, contributing 11 goals and 6 assists. His dynamic presence in the attacking third had quickly become central to Postecoglou’s system, providing a clinical edge and impressive link-up play.
Since his arrival at Spurs, Solanke has demonstrated flashes of the brilliance that led the club to break their transfer record to secure his services. He notched his first goal for Tottenham in a 3-1 triumph over Brentford in September and followed it up with his debut strike in UEFA club competition during a Europa League group-stage victory over Qarabağ FK.
With Tottenham currently languishing in 12th place in the Premier League table, far below their expectations, Solanke’s return could be the spark they need to climb back into contention.
His recovery is being closely monitored, with hopes high that the Englishman regain full fitness in time to play a pivotal role in the final stretch of the campaign.