Xavi Simons could be out of action until the start of next year, but he could still be a key player for Tottenham Hotspur this season
Xavi Simons has provided an injury update ahead of Tottenham Hotspur's clash against Charlton Athletic. The Lilywhites midfielder will be one of several absentees when Roberto De Zerbi's side hosts the Championship outfit in the second round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night, as he works hard to rebuild his fitness.
At the end of April, Simons ruptured the Anterior Cruciate Ligament in his right knee, ruling him out for the remainder of the season and much of the following campaign. The Netherlands international had played only a couple of times under the new head coach, but he appeared reinvigorated.
Simons hit the ground running under De Zerbi, scoring a goal and providing an assist on his first start. The following weekend, the 23-year-old suffered a nasty knee injury during a 1-0 win over Wolves, and he's been out of action ever since.
Although Simons has recently been spotted at Hotspur Way in training gear, and even in the stands at the Gtech Community Stadium to support his teammates on the opening game of the new Premier League season, he may not return to the pitch until the start of next year.
FOLLOW OUR TOTTENHAM FB PAGE! Latest Spurs news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page
On Tuesday morning, the Dutchman announced Tottenham's signing of Savio from Manchester City. In a video, which was uploaded across the Lilywhites' social media channels, Simons claimed he'll 'soon' join his former PSV Eindhoven teammate on the grass.
"Of course, it had to be me," he said. "Actually, I insisted. Welcome to Spurs, bro. I'm happy you're finally here. You're going to love it. The fans have been so good with me since I joined.
"And when they see you play, I know they're going to love you too. I'm working hard every day to get back. But soon we'll be both in the squad and on the pitch. I just can't wait."
Simons added: "For now, I'll just watch you, and I'll support you. And anything you need, I've got you. And I know everyone here will do the same. So enjoy it, Irmao. I am really looking forward to celebrating together with you. This is yours now, too."
Although Simons and Savio only shared the pitch seven times during a very brief spell at PSV Eindhoven in 2022, they quickly became close friends and stayed in touch. Speaking to reporters at Hotspur Way on Tuesday afternoon, De Zerbi tipped the duo to become key players for Tottenham.
The Spurs boss said: "They are very close as friends. They are two big players. I love this type of player. Xavi, I think in the future will become very important for this club..."