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#3 Toby Alderweireld's injury
In the 2015-16 season, Spurs' Belgian central defender Toby Alderweireld was the 3rd best defender in the league according to Squawka defender rankings and although he did not figure that high in the list last season, he remained one of the most influential players in the Spurs side.
This season, he started well (played all 10 games in the league) but pulled his hamstring during the momentous 3-1 win against Real Madrid at Wembley back in November and since then, he hasn't played for them. Pochettino had recently stated that he could be out for a while and it is interesting to note that since his injury, Spurs have had a torrid run.
Alderweireld is not only a defensive rock but he has the unique ability to play out of the back and distribute the ball well. In addition to that, he is a presence in the opposition box as well and often runs into good positions.
He is a nuisance during set pieces as well and his absence has hampered Spurs. They won against Cyrstal Palace, but lost to Arsenal, drew with West Bromwich Albion and then lost to Leicester City in the four games right after his injury. It is quite clear that his absence has hit Spurs hard and they either need to find a solution or enter the transfer market in January if the injury proves to be a long-term one.
