Alan Smith points out one potential reason why the Micky van de Ven injury might not be as serious as some people fear.
Spurs fans’ heart sank when Micky van de Ven came off
Van de Ven came off clutching his hamstring in the first half of Tottenham’s 2-1 Carabao Cup win on Wednesday. The centre-back only lasted 14 minutes on the pitch.
Everyone associated with Spurs would have feared the worst when they saw the Dutchman walk off the pitch holding his hamstring, with the player seemingly distraught.
Given the history that the 23-year-old has had with hamstring injuries, there is always a risk that he could be sidelined for a lengthy period.
Alan Smith suggests one reason for optimism
However, Smith believes that the injury might not be as serious as the player or the Tottenham medical staff might have initially feared.
The former Arsenal man pointed out that Van de Ven came back out to sit on the bench in the second half, suggesting that he might have not done so if it had been a major injury.
While commentating on the game, Smith said on Sky Sports main event (30/10/24 at 20:56) about the centre-back: “He’s come back out on a chilly night… must be a good sign.”
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Typically, the medial team would want to work on any serious injury, and would at least want to keep the muscles warm. The fact that Van de Ven came back out to sit on the bench could be seen as a positive sign that it isn’t a muscle tear or serious issue.
Ange Postecoglou faces a nervous wait
Ange Postecoglou and everyone associated with Tottenham will be extremely nervous as they wait for the results of Van de Ven’s scan.
With the former Wolfsburg man’s recovery pace being a crucial component of the high line that Spurs play, it would be a substantial blow for the Lilywhites if the defender is ruled out for a couple of months.