Antonio Conte’s five Tottenham options in Son Heung-min’s absence
By Gary Pearson
The Giovani Lo Celso or Tanguy Ndombele option
After another injury layoff, Giovani Lo Celso is again available for first team selection. Sonny’s absence could give the Argentinian his chance to come back into the first team. He would play in a more advanced central role. Lo Celso has experience in an advanced dynamic but has struggled to make a tangible offensive impact.
In theory, Ndombele presents a better option for Conte. Unfortunately Ndombele hasn’t impressed the new gaffer since his arrival, so it will interesting to see whether Conte is willing to give the Frenchman one last chance in the first team. Ndombele enjoyed a strong second half off the bench against Chelsea on Wednesday and has the skill set to replace Sonny while the South Korean is out.
However, Conte will not accept any passengers in his side. And while Ndombele has the skillset to contribute offensively, he will be expected to track back and put in the hard yards on the defensive side of the ball. Only time will tell if Ndombele is willing to commit to such hard graft.