Tottenham provided Yves Bissouma return forecast following Mali injury news
Tottenham is set for a pivotal matchup against Crystal Palace this Sunday as Thomas Frank’s squad fights to stop their concerning descent down the Premier League standings. Spurs currently occupy the 13th spot after a tumultuous season that has seen them secure only six victories in their first 17 league encounters and suffer losses in five of their last eight top-flight matches.
The showdown at Selhurst Park offers Frank a chance to regain some confidence after Saturday night’s painful 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, which has intensified the pressure on the manager from fans who have witnessed just two league wins at home all season. The loss to Liverpool was particularly tough for Tottenham after they were left with nine players due to red cards issued to Xavi Simons in the first half and Cristian Romero in stoppage time, with the Argentine skipper losing control following a free kick, leading to a second yellow card. Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké netted for the visiting side before a late Richarlison goal provided a glimmer of hope, ultimately adding to Spurs’ woes in what has been an increasingly erratic and error-prone season under Frank.
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Spurs face a challenge ahead.
Crystal Palace serves as a formidable rival for Tottenham, sitting five positions ahead, featuring pace and directness on the counter-attack that could exploit Spurs’ shaky defense. Frank will also be missing several key players due to injuries, with James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, Dominic Solanke, and Dejan Kulusevski all unavailable for the long term, and the suspensions of Simons and Romero further limit his choices during this critical festive season. Additionally, another player who’s been out for the majority of the season, and who has yet to make a competitive appearance under Frank, is Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma.
Spurs were receptive to offers for the 29-year-old during the summer, and he has faced multiple disciplinary issues off the pitch, fueling reports that the Lilywhites have opted to offload him next year. Although Bissouma’s contract runs until 2026, Spurs hold an option to extend it for another year; however, fans and Frank will be eager for him to contribute on the pitch first.
Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma may make his return from injury on Boxing Day
The ex-Brighton player, who was instrumental in Spurs’ Europa League final triumph over Man United in May, has been selected to represent Mali at AFCON despite his injury. According to Pierrot Le Foot, Bissouma has been ruled out of their opening Group A match against Zambia later today in Casablanca.
The national team captain is one of three vital players unavailable for the Eagles, alongside central defender Sikou Niakate and veteran right-back Hamari Traore, presenting Mali manager Tom Saintfiet with considerable selection challenges.
Nevertheless, reports suggest that Bissouma is nearing a return to action after beginning full training. PLF indicates that Bissouma might feature against Morocco on Boxing Day, or, if not, against Comoros three days later.
“In many major tournaments, some players start with injuries and then become the most dangerous (for their team) in the quarterfinals, semifinals, or final,” said Mali manager Saintfiet during a press briefing.
“Hakimi is also on Morocco’s list, and there’s a reason for that, because he’s one of those exceptional players who are significant. Yves (Bissouma) is my captain; he’s essential, he’s a leader for our team. However, we did not make this decision in isolation.
“Our doctor is in touch with Tottenham’s medical team. We have received assurances that Yves will be prepared during the tournament. As the matches intensify, we’ll be pleased to have him with us.”
This news could be positive for Spurs, as following the conclusion of the AFCON tournament, Bissouma might be ready for selection by Frank — providing them with additional options in the midfield. Nonetheless, he hasn’t made the best impression since Frank’s appointment due to his off-field behavior, so it remains uncertain whether the manager will rely on his services.
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Published: 2025-12-22 11:41:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
