There are a couple of curious absentees from Tottenham’s squad for Thomas Frank’s first pre-season friendly against Reading, with one linked-away star missing from the line-up even though he is believed to be fit.
Tottenham Hotspur will take to the field for the first time under Thomas Frank shortly for a pre-season friendly against Reading at the Select Car Lease Stadium.
Frank has already hinted that two different elevens will take to the field in either half, which one usually sees in the first few matches of pre-season.
However, one senior man is missing from the matchday squad amidst reports linking him with a move away from the club
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Richarlison is not part of Tottenham’s matchday squad despite being fit
The absence of Kota Takai is not surprising, considering he just got his work permit earlier this week, while Mathys Tel, Wilson Odobert and Archie Gray are missing as expected after joining the squad just a few days ago.
Manor Solomon also does not make the cut, but Football.London reveal that the Tottenham winger has picked up an injury.
However, the outlet says that Richarlison is not believed to be injured at the moment, which is why his absence is very interesting and potentially hints that he might be on his way out of the club.
Why Spurs fans should not jump to conclusions about Richarlison’s absence
It is natural for fans to put two and two together and assume that the Brazilian is close to leaving, particularly given that multiple clubs are now in talks with Tottenham over a deal for Richarlison.
However, the reason for his absence could still be a niggle or something the press are not yet aware of.
The reason that is possible is that despite Yves Bissouma being widely backed to leave Tottenham, the Mali international finds a place in the matchday squad. There is no reason to think Frank would not extend the same privilege to the former Everton man.
However, conversely, it could be the case that Tottenham have struck a deal for the sale of Richarlison, who is in the final stages of finalising the move.
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