Tottenham Hotspur 1, Sunderland 0: Mauricio Pochettino fears ligament damage after match-winner Harry Kane stretchered off
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admits he fears Harry Kane could be set for a spell on the sidelines after the striker was stretchered off during his side’s defeat of Sunderland.
Kane made the breakthrough with Tottenham’s 22nd attempt at goal as the north London club made heavy weather of overcoming the winless Black Cats, although victory moved Spurs above Arsenal to third in the league table.
Their win was tainted, however, as Kane was forced from the field with moments of the clash remaining following a collision with Sunderland defender Papy Djilobodji. The 23-year-old left White Hart Lane on crutches and wearing a protective boot.
“We will assess tomorrow [Monday]. It was tough, he twisted the ankle,” said Pochettino. “Now he feels pain and we will see tomorrow. It’s painful and we need to wait.
“I’m sure there may be a problem with his ligaments but it is difficult to assess today. We need to wait.”
International pair Mousa Dembele and Eric Dier also limped from the pitch in the second half with leg injuries, although Pochettino offered a more positive outlook on the midfield duo.
“Dier and Dembele only feel cramps in the hamstring, it’s not that big an issue,” added Pochettino.
Tottenham’s winner arrived on 59 minutes as Kane side-footed home after a defensive error from Djilobodji, which followed a string of fine saves from Black Cats goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Sunderland’s Adnan Januzaj was sent off late on for a second booking.