Tottenham star Destiny Udogie has revealed he will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on an unspecified injury.
It is a huge blow for Spurs as they look to finish in the Premier League top four and secure qualification for the Champions League, with several huge fixtures on the horizon.
Udogie has been a pivotal player for Ange Postecoglou with eye-catching performances in his debut season for the club.
But the 21-year-old will play no further part this campaign, announcing the bad news on Saturday evening via Instagram alongside several photos of him post operation.
‘The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord,’ the Italian posted.
‘An injury brings my season to an early end. It doesn’t take away from how grateful I am to every person that has supported me this year.’
It is not known what the injury is or how long exactly he could be out for, with his involvement in Euro 2024 with Italy now in doubt.
Ben Davies is likely to fill in at left-back now, starting with next Sunday’s North London derby against Arsenal, followed by a trip to their next biggest rivals Chelsea.
Tottenham also take on title contenders Liverpool and Manchester City in the next month.
Udogie joins Manor Solomon, Ryan Sessegnon and Fraser Forster in being sidelined for the rest of the season, while Richarlison is also in the treatment room but could be back in time ti feature against the Gunners.
As it stands, Spurs are just three points behind Aston Villa in fourth with a game in hand but their inferior goal difference and tricky run-in means Champions League qualification will be a very tough task.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MORE : Jamie Redknapp says Arsenal dodged a bullet by not signing Chelsea star
MORE : Ian Wright praises three Arsenal players after vital win over Wolves
MORE : Mauricio Pochettino slams referee after Chelsea were denied penalty in FA Cup loss to Manchester City
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.