Alan Hutton admits he is disappointed after Tottenham defender Japhet Tanganga missed the Premier League restart with a devastating injury.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hutton insists it is a “real shame” that Tanganga is currently out of action with a suspected stress fracture in his back.
Tottenham confirmed earlier this week that he remains sidelined alongside his teammate Juan Foyth.
The former Spurs star believes the defender may miss out even more, as Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford suffered a similar fate in January.
Hutton told assistant editor Russell Edge “it’s a real shame, this is the thing with injuries like that, you never know when it’s going to pop up and when it does it’s normally the wrong time.
“I feel for him, you look at Rashford, he was out for such a long time with the same thing so it’s going to be difficult for him.
“I think we’ve seen enough in him to know that he’s a quality player and definitely one for the future.
“He’s very young, plenty of time on his hands so it’s all about getting right, not rushing back, taking the time to sort it properly and I’m sure for the upcoming season he’ll be in Mourinho’s plans.”
It is hard to argue with Hutton here, as Tanganga has been one of the few success stories in a difficult season for Spurs.
The 21-year-old, who only broke into the first team this season, was a regular feature for Jose Mourinho’s side prior to the nationwide lockdown, which bodes well for the future.
He has played in a variety of defensive positions so far and impressed Mourinho his debut against league leaders Liverpool.
With Foyth and Jan Vertonghen seemingly on their way out the door, the stage was set for Tanganga to stake his claim.
Unfortunately he picked up a knock in training ahead of the clash with Manchester United and his return is as of yet unknown.
The Lilywhites are currently seventh in the table, six points away from fourth-placed Chelsea, although their London rivals have a game in hand.
While Tanganga should not be blamed for the latest setback, his injury couldn’t have come at a worse time for Mourinho as Spurs seek to qualify for Champions League football.
Tottenham fans, do you think Tanganga will be sorely missed against Sheffield United? Join the discussion in the comments!