Tottenham Hotspur face a vital Premier League match against Leeds United on Monday Night Football, with their place in the top flight still far from secure. Spurs gave themselves a significant lifeline with a 2-1 win over Europa League finalists Leeds — a result that dragged them out of the drop zone.
Roberto De Zerbi’s team know they can’t afford many more slip-ups as the season enters its final stages, with every game now carrying enormous weight. Although Spurs sit below Leeds in the standings, De Zerbi feels his side should still be regarded as the stronger team, pointing to the squad’s quality and the progress they’ve shown under his leadership in recent weeks.
It’s been a torrid season for Tottenham on the injury front, especially in attacking areas. Things deteriorated further when Xavi Simons suffered a serious knee ligament tear, joining Wilson Odobert on the treatment table, while Dominic Solanke is also set to miss Monday’s game with a hamstring problem.
Nevertheless, Spurs have received some encouraging news ahead of the fixture — though it relates to their opponents rather than their own squad.
According to reports from Isaac Johnson after Eddie Riemer’s press conference, Leeds attacker Noah Okafor will be sidelined for the next two games, including Monday’s visit to north London. The Swiss forward has been among Leeds’ most influential players this season, and his absence is likely to work significantly in Spurs’ favour.
Okafor’s ability to run in behind, create chances and find the net has made him a persistent danger throughout the campaign. His time at AC Milan demonstrates the level of quality he brings, making him the kind of player who can turn a game on its own — so Leeds will certainly feel his loss.
Leeds may also be missing another important player, with defender Pascal Struijk still a significant doubt for the game. The Dutch centre-back has been one of their standout performers, valued for his calm play on the ball and solid defensive work.
Although Struijk hasn’t been officially ruled out, the signs currently point toward him being absent on Monday. Losing both Okafor and Struijk would represent a major blow for Leeds and could prove a golden opportunity for Spurs in their battle to retain their Premier League status.
