Mathys Tel Injury Blow Raises Tottenham’s Attacking Concerns

Mathys Tel was forced off before half-time against Leeds after Jayden Bogle stamped on his ankle. VAR reviewed the challenge for more than four minutes but upheld the on-field decision of no red card.

Tottenham’s attacking options took another hit at Leeds when Mathys Tel had to leave the pitch before half-time after Jayden Bogle caught his ankle with his studs. The challenge went unpunished, despite a VAR review lasting more than four minutes to assess whether it warranted a red card.

Tel tried to continue for around five minutes, but signalled to the bench that he could not carry on. Dominic Solanke replaced him in the 43rd minute. The setback leaves Tottenham waiting to learn how serious Tel’s injury is, with the club already dealing with several attacking absences.

The Premier League Match Centre said the referee’s decision of no red card was “checked and confirmed by VAR”. VAR official Tony Harrington told referee John Brooks: “I'm confirming the on-field decision of no red card. There’s a lack of speed going into the challenge and he’s stepping into the tackle. Confirming a reckless challenge”.

The decision drew visible frustration from Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi. Brooks had not initially cautioned Bogle, and the review did not change the outcome: Leeds’ right wing-back remained on the pitch, while Tel was unable to continue.

The timing adds to Tottenham’s concerns. Savio and Mykhailo Mudryk are out until after the international break, while Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert are working their way back from serious knee injuries, with both targeting returns after the turn of the year.

Tel had impressed in recent weeks, including a solo goal in Tottenham’s 2-0 win over Chelsea on 24 October. That result was the club’s first victory at Stamford Bridge since 2018. His departure against Leeds therefore carries significance beyond one substitution: Tottenham now have to wait on the extent of the injury to a forward who had been contributing at an important time.

Solanke came on after being left out of the starting line-up following the previous weekend’s win over Crystal Palace. He took Tel’s place, but the immediate question for Tottenham is how long their French forward may be unavailable. The VAR review settled the disciplinary decision; it offered no answer on the injury that forced Tel off.