• Premier League

Tottenham dealt Modric blow

ESPN staff
February 2, 2011
Luka Modric's craft in the middle of the park has been a huge boon for Tottenham © PA Photos
Enlarge

Tottenham's title challenge has suffered a fresh blow with the news Luka Modric is facing a spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his appendix.

Redknapp has seen his side slip off the title pace and he made a string of bids to strengthen his squad on deadline day, failing with approaches for Charlie Adam, Giuseppe Rossi and Phil Neville.

The move for midfielders raised eyebrows, given the quality at Redknapp's disposal, but the setback to Modric could go some way to explaining his thinking.

Croatian star Modric has been a shining light for Spurs, with his craft in the middle of the park sparking their efforts both domestically and in Europe. But he was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery to remove his appendix and is facing a spell on the sidelines.

Tottenham are claiming Modric is likely to be out for at least two weeks, casting doubt on whether he will be fit to face AC Milan in the Champions League.

Redknapp feels Spurs' title chances have been weakened by the work of Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City in the transfer market.

"Before the window, I felt the title was up for grabs," Redknapp said. "It's going to get harder because the other teams are looking stronger. People were talking about Chelsea dropping out of the top four, but by signing Fernando Torres, Roman Abramovich has said 'I don't think so'.

"Liverpool are contenders for a top-four spot. Andy Carroll is a talent."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices