Tottenham have struggled with a slew of injuries throughout the current campaign, with around 21 players from Ange Postecoglou’s squad being sidelined at various points in the season.
The latest injury concern has been young midfielder Pape Matar Sarr, who was notably absent from the starting line-up in Spurs’ recent league fixture against Crystal Palace.
However, the Senegalese international was not completely sidelined, as he made a substitute appearance for the final 8 minutes on Saturday afternoon.
In the post-match press conference, manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Sarr has been managing a minor issue with his back since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nevertheless, Postecoglou reassured that the concern is not serious, as Sarr has continued to participate in regular training sessions.
He stated (via The Spurs Express):
“He’s had a bit of a back issue since he got back from sort of the Africa Cup of Nations. He’s been dealing with it and it’s getting better but it’s not totally free, so we’re working on it with him.
“It doesn’t stop him training, he’s still been training, but it does restrict him, it’s something we’re constantly working on but from what I understand he’ll be fine. Like I said he hasn’t missed training so it’s just something we’re working on with him.”
Sarr’s absence earlier in January was due to his national team commitments with Senegal in the AFCON. Senegal’s journey in the tournament was cut short in the Round of 16, as they were eliminated on penalties by eventual champions Ivory Coast.
The 21-year-old has been a consistent presence in Postecoglou’s team sheet, making 22 appearances in the Premier League this season, starting in 18 games, and contributing with 3 goals and 2 assists.
