Richarlison ruled out for up to seven weeks with a hamstring injury ahead of Tottenham’s London Derby with West Ham on Saturday.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank admitted the Brazil forward’s absence was another challenge for his side as they prepared for the Premier League clash.
Speaking at Hotspur Way on Thursday, Frank confirmed the news and provided an update on several other players. “Unfortunately, Richarlison has a hamstring injury that will keep him out for up to seven weeks,” Frank said. “Lucas Bergvall could be available – he is probably available – for Saturday. Yves Bissouma is back, so he’s available as well.”
Frank also offered encouragement over players nearing full fitness. “Destiny Udogie and Dominic Solanke are close to finishing a good week’s training,” he explained. “Both are available, both look good and both are closer to playing more minutes.”
The Spurs boss was equally positive when discussing new signing Conor Gallagher, highlighting both his quality and mentality. “I think it’s a top signing,” Frank said. “He’s a very good player with great experience in the Premier League and also in La Liga.
“He’s captained several teams, so that character, that leadership and that experience, while still being 25, is a big plus.”
Frank believes Gallagher’s style is exactly what Tottenham need. “He brings pressing abilities, directness and scoring goals,” he added. “He can also find good positions on the pitch, and that is exactly what we need.”
Turning his attention to West Ham United, Frank stressed that Tottenham must focus on themselves rather than the occasion. “I know it’s a big London derby, with the rivalry and everything, but it’s all about us,” he said. “It’s about coming out with energy, being positive and brave, and playing forward. If we do that, we’ll put a top performance out there and then we’ll win the game.”
Frank also praised West Ham head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. “Nuno deserves a lot of respect for everything he has done in the Premier League,” he said. “He is a top coach and he has shown it many times.”
Despite losing Richarlison, Frank remained calm about Tottenham’s situation. “It’s not a straightforward road,” he admitted. “When we get a fit player back, another one gets injured. But that’s football sometimes.
“We just need to get through the tough spells, keep walking forward and work through it. So, be calm and carry on.”
