Roberto De Zerbi says Tottenham stars James Maddison and Destiny Udogie have no serious injury concerns and could return against Sydney FC, in latest fitness update.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has downplayed injury fears surrounding playmaker James Maddison and defender Destiny Udogie, confirming both players were held out of recent training sessions as a strict precautionary measure. Speaking to the media post 2-0 win over Auckland, via Football London, the Italian manager reassured supporters that neither player is dealing with a major issue and both remain in contention for the upcoming pre-season friendly against Sydney FC.
Precautionary Rest for Maddison and Udogie ahead of Tottenham vs. Sydney
Addressing the squad’s physical condition during their pre-season tour, De Zerbi detailed why Maddison and Udogie were given light workloads over the past five days. Rather than risk aggravating minor physical strains during intense training sessions, the coaching staff opted to manage their recovery carefully.
“He’s not working the last five days, I think, like Udogie, but they have not a big problem, just to stay focused, don’t take any risks and then for the next game, the next friendly game against Sydney.”
The manager’s measured approach aligns with Tottenham’s broader strategy to avoid unnecessary pre-season injuries. By allowing both key figures time to recover full fitness, Spurs expect Maddison and Udogie to return seamlessly to first-team action as the opening day of the Premier League season approaches.
With Maddison and Udogie being reintroduced gradually, De Zerbi indicated that the next friendly against Sydney FC will feature significant squad rotation. The manager noted that midfielder Sandro Tonali and other squad players could be handed starting opportunities to build match conditioning.
“Maybe we play with Tonali, with other players, maybe, we’ve got to see.”
The upcoming clash in Australia provides De Zerbi with a valuable opportunity to test tactical combinations and give key summer additions crucial match minutes before Tottenham conclude their pre-season tour.