Tottenham Hotspur Injury Update: Rodrigo Bentancur latest details, recovery timeline
Despite the 1-0 victory Tottenham Hotspur gained in the EFL aka Carabao Cup semi-final leg 1 against Liverpool FC, who were having a 24-match unbeaten streak, there appeared heavy tensions. 27-year-old midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was forced off the field on a stretcher, after being treated in the field for some time. The scenes looked life-threatening as it appeared as no ordinary injury, but a serious concern.
On that note, read below to know what happened to Rodrigo Bentancur, the latest update on the situation, impact on the Tottenham Hotspur squad, possible replacements available, and the date of the player’s return to action.
Rodrigo Bentancur Injury Update
Rodrigo Bentancur started from the central midfield against in-form giants Liverpool FC in the game. But in the initial minutes itself, while attempting a diving header at the near post from the corner, he fell awkwardly and remained on the ground, not getting up.
This aroused immediate concerns, and the medical staff rushed in to treat the situation. He was treated for the next nine minutes on the pitch and was even provided oxygen. And just after that he was stretched out of the field, and transported to hospital for further tests/ checks. Brennan Johnson subbed him at the 15th minute of the game.
However, tensions surrounding the severity of the injury have been put to rest for the moment. Head coach Ange Postecoglou told Sky Sports after the game, “My understanding is he is conscious and he was conscious when he got to the dressing room.” The player later himself posted a photo of him, smiling. He also wrote on his Instagram story, “All good, guys! Thank you for the messages!!! Congratulations (on) the victory boys!!!”
The statements thus provide some relief, however it has also been communicated that the player will be observed further in the hospital.
Impact of Rodrigo Bentancur’s Injury on Tottenham Hotspur Squad and Strategy
The No. 30 has been an important part of the otherwise struggling Tottenham Hotspur squad. Primarily contributing as a CDM, he has accounted for about 40-50% of the total minutes the side has played this season. In the EPL, he has played in all games for the club this season, except for a month, when he was suspended by the court, and twice for injury/ yellow card.
The Uruguayan helps the team by preventing all potential playmakers from progressing with their moves against the backline. He even doesn’t shy away from taking cards for clever fouls to avoid conceding goals. His absence will impact the side’s defense majorly, and also the attack in the long run.
The club might be required to come out of their attacking approach and be more firm on the defense, with one man less to protect the fence.
Possible Replacements and Tactical Adjustments
Tottenham Hotspur have played without Rodrigo Bentancur just a month back, so the problem is nothing new for Ange Postecoglou’s side. There is Yves Bissouma as the only natural replacement for the injured player, however, he also lacks the stamina to perform for the full game. Besides the No. 8, the club can also try to field Pape Matar Sarr and young Lucas Bergvall.
Ideally, Ange Postecoglou’s side takes the 4-3-3 attacking approach with Rodrigo Bentancur available. But if the midfielder is not available, the club tends to field a 4-2-3-1 formation. It is expected that till the time Bentancur is sidelined, they might be required to switch out of the coach’s preferred 4-3-3 attacking approach, and go for 4-2-3-1.
Rodrigo Bentancur’s Return date
Since neither clear reports nor statements have arrived, and observations are still on, Rodrigo Bentancur’s return doubt is unknown. Also, given the intent of the injury is unknown, speculations are not possible either.
However, it can be hoped that Bentancur will return to play soon, as he says he is “all good” on social media, and the reports also hint he is doing fine.
FAQs
Q. What type of injury does Rodrigo Bentancur have?
Rodrigo Bentancur fell awkwardly and remained on the ground, not getting up in the EFL aka Carabao Cup semi-final leg 1 Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool FC.
Q. When did Rodrigo Bentancur get injured?
Rodrigo Bentancur started from the central midfield against in-form giants Liverpool FC. But in the initial minutes itself, while attempting a diving header at the near post from the corner, he fell awkwardly and remained on the ground, not getting up. This aroused immediate concerns, and the medical staff rushed in to treat the situation. He was treated on the pitch and provided oxygen. After that he was stretched out of the field, and transported to hospital for further tests/ checks.
Q. What is the expected recovery timeline for Rodrigo Bentancur?
Since neither clear reports nor statements have arrived, and observations are still on, Rodrigo Bentancur’s return doubt is unknown. Also, given the intent of the injury is unknown, speculations are not possible either. However, it can be hoped that Bentancur will return to play soon, as he says he is “all good” on social media
Q. Who are the potential replacements for Rodrigo Bentancur?
Yves Bissouma as the only natural replacement for the injured Rodrigo Bentancur. The club can also try to field Pape Matar Sarr and young Lucas Bergvall.
Q. Has Rodrigo Bentancur suffered similar injuries in the past?
Rodrigo Bentancur was out for a game owing to head injury at the start of the season. He also suffered from head injured a couple of years ago in September 2022.