International breaks are one of the bain’s of my existence. They take action away from domestic duties and for absolutely no reason whatsoever, increase the likelihood of injury. The curse struck once again recently when Mousa Dembele was dragged off at half time during Belgium’s recent 2-0 win over Scotland following the reoccurrence of a hip problem that has now ruled the Tottenham Hotspur star out for, potentially, the next six weeks.
Upon the departure of Luka Modric over the summer, the 25-year-old was brought in from Fulham as his direct replacement in the middle of the park. The creative threat from deep that the now Real Madrid star offers was tailor made for Dembele.
Without him in the team, however, Spurs look lost and devoid of creativity. The link between the midfield and front-line is non-existent and, as a result, has seen the North Londoners form drop off since his last appearance against Aston Villa.
However, his injury will have a greater effect on the team than some are willing to admit. November, it has to be said, is one of the biggest for Spurs this season, and with tricky trips to Manchester City and Arsenal upcoming, his loss from the midfield will be far greater than that of any other player, such is the impact he’s made upon his arrival at White Hart Lane.
Alongside Sandro in the middle of the park, Dembele has comfortably slotted into the new system adopted by head coach Andre Villas-Boas, with his impact clearly evident for all to see. With the club hoping to secure back-to-back top four finishes, it is vital that the Belgian remains fit due to the impact he makes against any team, regardless of the opponents.