Christian Eriksen returns, but Mousa Dembele to miss Tottenham’s match at Huddersfield

Team news is out for Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming Premier League match at debutants Huddersfield United, and it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The good news is that Christian Eriksen is very likely to return to the starting XI after missing Tuesday’s Champions League match against APOEL due to illness. The bad news is that Mousa Dembele has been ruled out again with a foot problem.

Pochettino’s comments about Dembele were maddeningly vague, which knowing Poch’s history when he talks about player injuries, isn’t exactly encouraging.

Dembele’s absence continues Tottenham’s ongoing midfield injury problems. Victor Wanyama hasn’t been seen since the 2-1 loss to Chelsea on August 20, meaning Spurs continue without two of their regular midfield options, and arguably their two primary midfield starters. Eric Dier will continue to be in the rotation to play, and after his good match against APOEL, one would think that Harry Winks has now played himself into the rotation alongside Moussa Sissoko.

It might not be all bad though — Huddersfield isn’t especially great, and this might be an opportunity to give some players who may be on the verge of a return a chance to rest and heal as the league heads into the upcoming international break.

Eriksen’s return will be welcome, however. Tuesday’s APOEL match highlighted how much creativity Spurs miss when he’s not in the side, and having him and Dele Alli back in the starting XI will hopefully add a spark against what could be another bunkered relegation candidate club.

Meanwhile, Serge Aurier will miss the match due to suspension, while Erik Lamela and Danny Rose continue to recuperate from their long-term injuries.