Tottenham's Erik Lamela in contention to face Leicester, says Mauricio Pochettino

By Rory O'Callaghan

Image: Erik Lamela could make his return from injury against Leicester

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that both Erik Lamela and Danny Rose and are in contention to face Leicester on Tuesday.

Lamela has been sidelined with a number of hip injuries for over a year, while Rose only recently made his return to first-team duties after a long-term knee injury.

"It's good news because Lamela is in contention for tomorrow and, after training today, he told us he feels good and said 'okay I am ready to move on and be available if you want'," Pochettino said.

Mauricio Pochettino says he is protecting left-back Danny Rose after his injury

"I think it is so important because we have a very busy schedule ahead."

Rose made his return against Real Madrid in the Champions League last month but was omitted from Tottenham's match-day squad for both the defeat at Arsenal and Saturday's 1-1 draw with West Brom.

Advertisement

Midweek PL goals on your mobile

Watch all the midweek PL goals as they go in with the Sky Sports app

The England international's long-term future at Spurs has been in question since he publicly criticised the club in the summer and hoped for a move, but Pochettino suggested the defender remains part of his plans.

"He understands perfectly that we are caring for him," he said. "He played against Dortmund but he needs to build up, getting better every week.

Also See:

Mauricio Pochettino admits the gap between Tottenham and Premier League leaders Manchester City is 'massive'

"My decision, not only with Danny but with everyone, is to care for them - to try and get a performance at the level we want and to also benefit them.

"It is okay because he was training during the week and we believe he is available for tomorrow."

Pochettino admitted his side's Premier League title chances look bleak at the weekend, as the gap to league-leaders Manchester City was extended to 13 points.

And he said: "We need to believe and try to win games. If we don't win [against Leicester] - it is difficult to be a contender.

"It is true that there is a great gap between Manchester City and the rest of the contenders. Manchester City have improved a lot from last season. The gap is massive but we will see what happens.

Tuesday's Super 6

There's £250k up for grabs in this Tuesday's Super 6. Enter your predictions for free here.

Outbrain