Tottenham finally get injury boost! Micky van de Ven filmed running in intense first-team training with possible return to action this week

The Dutch centre-back, sidelined since early December due to a hamstring injury sustained in Spurs' loss to Chelsea, was seen running and defending during drills. His injury coincided with the absence of Cristian Romero, another vital figure in Spurs' defensive lineup. Romero, like Van de Ven, has been out of action since December, leaving Tottenham without their first-choice centre-backs for nearly two months.

Their absence has been felt heavily as in the eight Premier League games played since Van de Ven and Romero were sidelined, Spurs have managed just one win. This poor run of form has left the team desperate for reinforcements, especially with a series of season-defining fixtures on the horizon and the threat of relegation creeping into the picture.

Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou provided an update on the fitness of Van de Ven and Romero following the team’s recent defeat to Leicester. The Australian expressed optimism about the duo’s progress, hinting that their return to training was a step in the right direction.

"There are definitely a couple getting close, Micky and Cuti, they’ll be training with the group, and even just having them training is great," he said. "There are another couple who are not too far off, on the horizon as well, so that will definitely help."

Tottenham’s injury woes have stretched the squad thin, leaving Postecoglou with limited options. However, the potential return of Van de Ven and Romero could not come at a better time. They will be back in action against IF Elfsborg on Thursday in the Europa League, which will be followed by a tricky trip to Brentford on Sunday.

On February 6, Spurs will travel to Anfield for the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. Holding a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, Tottenham will need a strong defensive performance to secure their place in the final. Just three days later, Postecoglou’s side will visit Aston Villa for the fourth round of the FA Cup. With silverware within reach in both competitions, Tottenham’s ability to field a stronger lineup could make all the difference.