Thomas Frank blames Tottenham schedule for latest injury blow to lead goalscorer
Richarlison was forced off in the first half of Tottenham Hotspur’s FA Cup third round tie against Aston Villa, and Thomas Frank has revealed why he believes the Brazilian has picked up an injury.
The future of Richarlison looked uncertain last summer, but he has rediscovered his position as a regular starter at Tottenham Hotspur since the arrival of Thomas Frank.
This has allowed the Brazilian to make an impact, most notably in front of goal. Richarlison has found the back of the net eight times in all competitions this season, making him the club’s top scorer.
However, the 28-year-old could be about to spend a few weeks on the sidelines after he went down injured after just half an hour against Aston Villa.
Thomas Frank blames Richarlison’s injury on Tottenham’s busy schedule
Frank has confirmed that Richarlison appears to have suffered a hamstring injury during his team’s FA Cup third-round defeat, and he has identified who is to blame for this occurrence.
According to the goal machine’s manager, Spurs have had to play too many matches in a short space of time, which is why Richarlison and other players are getting injured.
Speaking about him after the Aston Villa game, Frank told Football London: “Yeah, it could look like that [a hamstring injury].
“I think we’ve done a lot of things right to get him where he is now. I think he’s done a lot of things right. It’s not only about us, it’s about every club. I think there are a few injuries across the Premier League. I think it’s something for the football authorities to look into as well.
“We played five games in 13 days, four in ten. One of the few clubs who did that. This is our third time this season. That’s the most tricky thing with two days in between. We’re dealing with it. We’re doing everything we can to compete in it, but that’s a tough schedule.”
Dominic Solanke has returned for Spurs at the perfect time
While Richarlison joins Tottenham’s ever-growing list of unavailable players, Dominic Solanke made the match-day squad to face Aston Villa. This means he has finally completed his return from an ankle injury he picked up in August.
Now is a good time for the Englishman to find favour with Frank, having started the season as a second-choice striker behind Richarlison.
Spurs also have Randal Kolo Muani, who registered an assist against Aston Villa, while Dane Scarlett can fill in where required. Richarlison’s goals will be missed, but there are players in the Tottenham first-team squad who can come in as temporary replacements.
READ MORE – Why Richarlison deserves more respect and support from Tottenham fans
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