Tottenham Hotspur reportedly refused to allow Destiny Udogie to join up with the Italian national team during the recent international break.
The 20-year-old defender’s agent has now revealed that Spurs were unwilling to take any risks after the defender picked up a flexor problem during the match against Sheffield United.
His agent told TMW: “The first to be sorry is Spalletti.
“Unfortunately, in the match against Sheffield United at home, Destiny had a flexor problem. Tottenham did everything they could to get him back for the Chelsea game, which was also a poor match: he played 60 minutes before being sent off.
“Afterwards, it was deemed appropriate not to risk it as there would be been a risk of relapse. Destiny, until the last moment, tried to convince the Tottenham staff that the national team was something exceptional for him.
“He is a 20-year-old who told me, ‘we want to be part of history, to be part of this group in the run-up of the Euros is to be part of history’.”
The 20-year-old has been a key player for Tottenham since joining the club for £15 million and his performance has been hugely impressive. Tottenham are lacking in depth when it comes to the left-back department and it is hardly a surprise that they did not want to take any risks with Udogie.
It is understandable that the talented young defender wanted to be a part of his country’s squad that is looking to cement their place in the European championships next summer. However, he is a prodigious talent with a bright future ahead of him and he will get to play enough games for his country if he continues to perform at a high level with Tottenham.
The London outfit have started the season well and they will be hoping to return to the UEFA Champions League by the end of the campaign. Udogie will certainly be an important player for them and keeping him fit will be a top priority for the Premier League side.
