Thomas Frank has confirmed Tottenham Hotspur are seeking attacking reinforcements after Richarlison was ruled out for up to seven weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in the FA Cup loss to Aston Villa. The Brazilian forward, who is Spurs' top scorer with eight goals this season, adds to a growing list of absentees.
Frank revealed the club have been without Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison all season, with neither close to returning. The recent sale of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace and a thigh problem for Mohammed Kudus, sidelined until April, have further depleted options. Dominic Solanke has only just returned from a long-term ankle injury.
“Richy unfortunately got a hamstring injury that will keep him out for up to seven weeks,” said Frank. “We are in the market, as I said many times, to see if we can improve the squad but it needs to be something that we improve for the short and long term. It can’t only be for the next four months. We need to think bigger picture as well.”
Asked whether the Richarlison setback felt like two steps forward, one step back, Frank said: “It’s not a straightforward road. It seems like when we get a fit player back, then another one gets injured. That’s football sometimes. We need just to get through the tough spells.” He confirmed midfielder Lucas Bergvall could return against West Ham this weekend.
Frank also welcomed John Heitinga to his coaching staff, replacing Matt Wells who left to become Colorado Rapids head coach. Spurs confirmed Rafi Moersen will join as first director of football operations from City Football Group, while Dan Lewindon starts as performance director next month.
