Premier League sides AFC Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur face a significant selection headache ahead of their midweek encounter, with a combined thirteen players definitively ruled out and a further one major doubt.
Cherries Hit by Fresh Injury Blows
Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth squad has been severely depleted ahead of the visit of Spurs. The most recent setback is Justin Kluivert, who is now confirmed to be out until at least April following a knee injury requiring surgery this Thursday.
They are joined on the sidelines by Ben Doak (hamstring, out until February), Tyler Adams (torn MCL, February), and William Dennis, who suffered a twisted ankle in training and could face up to eight weeks out.
There is slightly better news regarding Ryan Christie, though he remains unlikely to feature. Iraola stated the player is running but still has issues kicking the ball. Youngster Veljko Milosavljevic has returned to training and is the closest to a return, but the match may come too soon.
Long-term absentee Matai Akinmboni also remains unavailable.
Spurs Squad Stretched Thin
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has his own extensive list of absentees. Key attacker Mohammed Kudus is "most likely ruled out" for the trip to the south coast and is awaiting a scan to clarify the issue.
The squad is further weakened by international duty, with Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma away at the African Cup of Nations.
In positive news, Wilson Odobert is fit again after a head injury, and Destiny Udogie is back in training and "looking better." However, striker Dominic Solanke will not be involved as he lacks sharpness after a long layoff.
The season-long absence of James Maddison continues following his ACL surgery in August, while the return date for Dejan Kulusevski remains unclear.
Match Context and Implications
The fixture sees two sides looking to build momentum in the middle of the Premier League table. Tottenham, unbeaten in three but with only one win in that run, sit 13th. Bournemouth, in 15th, are hoping to improve after a difficult winter period.
This extensive injury list for both clubs will force the managers to delve deep into their squads, potentially handing opportunities to fringe players. The outcome could significantly influence each team's confidence as they aim to climb the standings in the second half of the season.
