Tottenham are desperately missing Richarlison and Rodrigo Bentancur as they struggle in the Premier League.
Both the Brazil international and the Uruguay international are yet to make an appearance for Spurs since the World Cup ended, with the north Londoners drawing to Brentford and losing to Aston Villa in that time.
Now, however, Tottenham may have just released a big clue about Richarlison and Bentancur.
What’s the story?
Well, Spurs posted a 10-second video of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg doing some stretches in the gym at Hotspur Way earlier today, where a board with the name of Tottenham’s players can be seen behind the Denmark international.
It clearly reads Pre-Activation Groups dated for Friday 13th January, and appears to have 25 names on the screen, suggesting that those included will be part of the matchday squad to face Arsenal on Sunday.
When Hojbjerg bends down, the names of Richarlison and Bentancur can both be seen at the bottom.
Some may argue that this is simply down to the fact both South Americans are registered in Tottenham’s Premier League squad.
While that is factually the case, the term Pre-Activation Group suggests Antonio Conte is planning to put the players on that list through their paces in order to prepare them for Sunday’s north London derby.
Only time will tell for sure, but if it does mean Richarlison and Bentancur are back available for selection, it would be a huge boost for Conte as he aims to take points off the Premier League leaders.
Tottenham need Bentancur more than Richarlison
As good as Richarlison is, Spurs can rely on Harry Kane and Heung-min Son to deliver in his absence.
However, Conte does not have another midfielder like Bentancur, who was making a very strong case for Tottenham’s Player of the Season award before jetting off to Qatar.
Keep an eye on the teamsheet tomorrow afternoon, as we will then find out for definite whether Richarlison and Bentancur will be involved.
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