Tottenham Hotspur's recent season review has shed light on the club's struggles with injuries, particularly the alarming frequency of ACL injuries. The review, led by performance director Dan Lewindon, aims to uncover the reasons behind the team's poor fitness and availability, which reached an average of 77% last season, resulting in players being absent for over 2,000 days combined. The club's focus on ACL injuries is notable, with James Maddison, Wilson Odobert, and Xavi Simons all suffering long-term ACL tears, and Dejan Kulusevski missing the entire season due to a serious knee injury. This has prompted an internal audit to identify the factors contributing to the high injury rate.
One area of investigation is the pitch conditions at Tottenham's home ground, but initial findings suggest no significant difference compared to rival pitches. The club acknowledges that certain knee injuries, like Odobert's ACL tear, are unavoidable, and they are confident that the on-field treatment of Xavi Simons' injury did not cause additional damage. However, there has been criticism from supporters regarding the handling of injuries, particularly the footage showing medics allowing an attacker to put weight on a serious knee injury.
The review also emphasizes the need for more individualized medical support, with Lewindon recommending tailored profiles for each player based on strength, fatigue, and robustness. This approach aims to prevent injuries and provide expert care. Additionally, Tottenham plans to allow injured players more flexibility in their rehabilitation, encouraging them to seek treatment outside the club's training facility, a practice common among Premier League players and overseas footballers.
The medical team will collaborate closely with head coach Roberto de Zerbi and his staff to address concerns about frequent managerial changes, which may have impacted the team's injury problems. Tottenham aims to introduce an integrated structure for rehabilitation, involving the medical department, players, and coaching staff in decision-making. Furthermore, the club will hire a full-time head of psychology to support players and staff, recognizing the importance of mental health in injury prevention and recovery.
In summary, Tottenham's season review highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to injury management, combining medical expertise, individualized care, and psychological support. The club's efforts to address these issues demonstrate a commitment to improving performance and player well-being, which is essential for long-term success in the Premier League.
