Tottenham sweat over fitness of star midfielder ahead of North London Derby – now.arsenal

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Tottenham Hotspur are facing a nervous wait over the fitness of midfielder Yves Bissouma, who sustained an injury while on international duty ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated North London Derby against Arsenal. 

Bissouma, 28, was forced off the field in the 65th minute after scoring the winning goal for Mali in their World Cup qualifier against Eswatini. The midfielder received a knock during a tough challenge, casting doubt over his availability for the derby.

This latest setback comes as a blow to Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou, who already has several key players battling fitness concerns. While out-of-favour forward Richarlison has been ruled out of the derby, defender Micky van de Ven and striker Dominic Solanke are racing against time to be fit for the clash. Bissouma’s potential absence adds to Postecoglou’s worries, with the midfielder considered a crucial part of his plans.

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Arsenal are dealing with their own injury crisis in midfield, with captain Martin Ødegaard and new signing Mikel Merino sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Declan Rice is suspended after receiving a controversial red card in Arsenal’s recent match against Brighton. The Gunners’ midfield struggles could level the playing field in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested derby.

Bissouma, who missed Tottenham’s opening match of the season due to a suspension, has been a key figure for Postecoglou since his return. His suspension stemmed from a video he posted on social media showing him inhaling laughing gas, an incident for which he later apologised. 

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“This was a severe lack of judgement,” Bissouma said. “I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved, and I take my responsibility as a footballer and role model very seriously.”

Despite his off-field controversy, Bissouma returned to the starting lineup and scored in Tottenham’s 4-0 victory over Everton. His form has been vital for Spurs, who sit 10th in the Premier League with one win, one draw, and one loss. A win in the North London Derby would propel them level on points with Arsenal, who are currently fourth in the table.

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