Roberto De Zerbi has said Dominic Solanke could make his first start since April when Tottenham host Everton on Saturday evening, and he has challenged his forwards to raise their level.
Solanke has not started a game for Spurs since he was withdrawn 40 minutes into the north London club’s crucial 1-0 win away to Wolves last season with a hamstring injury.
The 28-year-old, who spent the majority of last term nursing a recurring ankle injury, played no part in Spurs’ final four games and watched from the bench as they secured Premier League survival on the final day.
It had been hoped that a full pre-season would allow Solanke to return to fitness in time for the start of this season, but the club’s medical team, in collaboration with De Zerbi, were cautious about risking Solanke due to concerns over jet lag as well as his injury history.
Spurs, who have revamped their medical team under the guidance of performance director Dan Lewindon, have erred on the side of caution, particularly with players who have a patchy injury record such as Solanke.
That means the former Bournemouth striker has played just 114 minutes in all competitions this season, despite Spurs failing to score in each of their first three league games.
Asked when Solanke would be ready to start, De Zerbi said the former England international would either be included from the start against Everton or when Spurs take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup third round next Tuesday.
“I think he is close. He’s a crucial player for us, Dom Solanke. For the characteristics, personality, level of the player. He’s very close after two times on the bench – Newcastle and Nottingham – he could start the game. Or, anyway, Tuesday, he can start the game,” De Zerbi said.
Spurs remain winless in the Premier League this season but have played better than their results suggest.
The main issue for De Zerbi, though, remains in attack, where his side have failed to find the back of the net in the league and looked devoid of inspiration in drawing 0-0 with Nottingham Forest last weekend.
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Spurs let Brennan Johnson, their top goalscorer in the 2024/25 season, leave for Crystal Palace in January, and the Welsh winger will line up for Everton tomorrow evening.
They are also trying to negotiate an exit for last season’s top scorer, Richarlison, with Brazilian side Vasco Da Gama showing serious interest.
But De Zerbi is not worried about the number of goals Spurs have been happy to let leave the club, having also sold Heung Min-Son and Harry Kane in recent years.
“Solanke didn’t play many games. I hope Solanke can be available this season more than last season. Marmoush didn’t play for Tottenham last season,” De Zerbi continued.
“Savio didn’t play last season for Tottenham. And then all players they have to…Mathys Tel has to improve. Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. Now he is 22 years (old) and he has to push, to show.”
