Antonio Conte’s five Tottenham options in Son Heung-min’s absence

When news of Son Heung-min‘s muscle injury broke this morning, Tottenham supporters took a long, collective apprehensive breath. 

Tottenham’s most valuable player is expected to miss almost a month of action with what, at this inchoate stage, is only being described as a muscle injury.

The injury comes at a particularly inopportune time for Antonio Conte, who is readying his side for a top four push. Son’s injury setback will invariably present an opportunity for somebody else to come in and prove their worth to the team.

These options do not take into account any transfer reinforcements that may, or may not, be forthcoming in the coming weeks.

Here’s Conte’s options while Son recovers from his latest injury setback.

Left-sided Spanish connection

Antonio Conte has recently shown growing faith in Spanish youngster Bryan Gil, who has made cameo appearances off the bench in four consecutive matches, including in Wednesday’s semifinal defeat at Chelsea. Prior to that Gil was impacted by Covid-19 and was temporarily unavailable.

Gil being provided his chance to start could be Conte’s preferred option in Sonny’s absence. Though he might have to pivot quickly if the experiment doesn’t bear fruit. Gil would play on the left side of the front three with compatriot Sergio Reguilon patrolling his usual left wingback role in support.

This option would allow Conte to maintain his preferred 3-4-3 system. While Gil contributed consistently off the bench in December, he hasn’t yet been provided the opportunity to make an impact as a member of the starting 11. There’s a good chance GIl will now get his chance to shine alongside Lucas Moura and Harry Kane. The big question is whether the 20-year-old is ready to take it.