What Thomas Frank has said as Destiny Udogie absent from Tottenham squad vs Aston Villa
Destiny Udogie is a surprise absentee from the Tottenham squad to face Aston Villa on Sunday.
Villa have travelled to face Spurs in North London as both sides look to continue their winning form in the Premier League after the international break.
Unai Emery’s side beat Burnley 2-1 last time out, while Tottenham secured a 2-1 win against Leeds United at Elland Road.
Thomas Frank will have been hopeful of naming an unchanged Tottenham side to face Aston Villa, but has been unable to do so.
Udogie is shockingly missing from the squad at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ahead of the clash against the Villans.
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Destiny Udogie absent from Tottenham squad vs Aston Villa
Udogie has been praised at Tottenham this season, even if his fitness has continued to represent a concern in N17.
The ever-reliable Djed Spence has often replaced the Italy international as the Lilywhites look to push on without the ex-Udinese youngster.
The 22-year-old came in from the start last time out against Leeds and looked impressive as he helped Frank’s men to three points.
International break followed, but Spurs fans were grateful to see that Udogie hadn’t played a single minute across clashes with Estonia and Israel.
Unfortunately, it appears that this lack of game time wasn’t as positive as hoped, with the left-back still absent from the matchday squad to face Villa.
Fans were quick to notice his omission from the team sheet, raising questions about where the Italian is.
Thomas Frank confirms Udogie absence vs Aston Villa
In Spence, the Lilywhites don’t necessarily have to worry, as his defensive capabilities certainly cover for his counterpart perfectly.
The England international caught the eye under Thomas Tuchel over the break, but that doesn’t mean that Frank wouldn’t want Udogie involved.
Speaking ahead of the Villa clash, George Sessions reported on 19 October that the Dane revealed he suffered a “minor irritation” on international duty. Still, it is said to be “nothing major”.
Adding to this, Frank spoke to Sky Sports Main Event, adding: “He came back from international duty with a minor irritation in the knee, which is keeping him out of this game.”
Villa are in positive form, but Spence should feel confident up against the likes of Donyell Malen, Evann Guessand and John McGinn for the away side.