Richarlison must step up after Tottenham suffer Solanke injury blow

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Tottenham Hotspur striker Dominic Solanke is out with a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season. (h/t The Telegraph)

Solanke limped off as Tottenham claimed a crucial win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday after lasting just 40 minutes.

Scans later revealed a hamstring tear, and he now faces between three and eight weeks on the sidelines.

While Spurs are unlikely to confirm that his campaign is over, the timing of the injury means Roberto De Zerbi will be without one of his key attacking players.

It caps off a frustrating campaign for Solanke, who has struggled with injuries recently.

The Tottenham centre-forward had only recently returned from a lengthy ankle problem and has managed just 20 appearances in all competitions this season.

The injury could also have major consequences internationally.

Solanke had been competing to establish himself as Harry Kane’s understudy for England ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

However, with the tournament now just weeks away, his chances of making the squad have suffered a significant setback.

Tottenham midfielder Xavi Simons also suffered a devastating knee injury in the same game and is now expected to be out until 2027.

Spurs captain Cristian Romero is also out for the rest of the season, while Mohammed Kudus, Guglielmo Vicario and Dejan Kulusevski are unavailable.

Richarlison must lead Tottenham’s survival bid

Despite their victory at Wolves, Spurs remain firmly embroiled in the relegation battle. The spotlight now turns to Richarlison.

The Brazil international (54 caps) has delivered a disappointing return of 10 goals and five assists in 39 appearances this season.

But Tottenham can no longer afford inconsistency from one of their senior forwards.

With Solanke unavailable and injuries piling up across the squad, Richarlison has to step up over the final four league games.

Richarlison has the experience, aggression and personality to lead from the front.

If Spurs are to avoid an unthinkable relegation, they need him to deliver when it matters most.