MusaDespite controlling much of the first half and forcing Zion Suzuki into several impressive saves, Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham side went into the break behind. Spurs were reduced to 10 men temporarily after Micky van de Ven went down injured, allowing Johan Manzambi to capitalise with a close-range finish.
Tottenham appeared to have found their equaliser after the restart, only for Mohammed Kudus’ effort to be ruled out for offside. Things then went from bad to worse for the hosts as Nicolas Jackson and Emi Buendia both got on the scoresheet to put Aston Villa firmly in control.
Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke scored late goals to give Spurs renewed hope, but their late fightback ultimately came too late to prevent another damaging defeat.
Pedro Porro suffers fresh injury setback
De Zerbi made several changes to the team that started Tottenham’s midweek Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool, with Pedro Porro returning to the starting XI after missing the previous two matches with a minor muscle issue.
The Spanish right-back made a positive start to the game, combining effectively with his teammates and showing his attacking threat with several dangerous deliveries into the final third.
However, Porro’s return lasted just 19 minutes. The 27-year-old was forced off inside the opening quarter of the match after going down while attempting a challenge, with his reaction immediately raising concerns over the severity of the problem.
Porro remained on the pitch for a moment before being helped towards the touchline by Tottenham’s medical staff. He was visibly frustrated and even appeared to slam his fist into the ground as he realised he could no longer continue.
It remains unclear whether the injury is connected to the muscular problem that kept him out of Tottenham’s previous games or whether he has suffered an entirely new issue.
His early departure was another blow to De Zerbi’s plans. Porro has become an important outlet for Tottenham in possession, particularly when progressing the ball and creating opportunities from the right flank. His early substitution also disrupted the promising understanding he had begun developing with Savio.
The 27-year-old remains an important part of De Zerbi’s system because of his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Tottenham will now hope that his latest injury is not serious.
With the international break approaching, Porro could have valuable time to recover. However, given how frustrated and concerned he appeared when leaving the pitch, there will be understandable questions over whether he will be available when Spurs return to Premier League action, including their upcoming trip to Manchester United in October.
Musa
