Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke has undergone "minor surgery" to resolve a persistent ankle injury. The ex-Bournemouth man has been struggling for fitness in the 2025/26 season, with last appearance for the Lilywhites coming against Manchester City on August 23. He was absent from training on Monday, and did not feature in Thomas Frank's squad for his side's 1-1 draw against Bodo/Glimt.
Solanke posts Instagram update on surgery
Solanke took to his personal Instagram account to provide an update to the Tottenham faithful.
His message, posted to his Instagram Stories read: "Hi everyone, quick update about my current situation.
"The last few months have been very frustrating as I've tried everything possible to tray and push through my ankle issue before taking the option of surgery.
"None of this managed to solve the proble, so we had to go ahead with minor surgery which I underwent this morning (September 30). It was all successful so hopefully I'll be back on the pitch in the very near future!
"Thank you for all your love and messages."
AdvertisementGetty Images SportNo schedule provided for Solanke's return
Solanke's update comes after Frank had informed reporters of the impending procedure ahead of Tottenham's Champions League tie with Bodo/Glimt. The manager referred to the surgery as "small", but did not provide a prognosis or a schedule for the England international's return. When asked if the club could have opted for surgery sooner, Frank replied: "No, I think you can look at it two ways. That is the easy answer but it is not that easy because if we knew we could have done the surgery a month ago, we probably would have done it.
"For me I am always 'it is what it is'. We deal with it now and no doubt the way we dealt with it was because we thought that was the right thing. In general no-one wants surgery."
Frank's attacking options without Solanke
Despite promising signs under Frank, Tottenham have been dealt a number of injuries in the attacking third. Randal Kolo Muani has made just one appearance since joining from Paris Saint Germain on a season-long loan, a 13 minute cameo from the bench against Villareal in the Champions League.
Solanke's persistent problems and Kolo Muani's stuttering start to life in N17 has provided Richarlison with the bulk of the opportunities in attack. The Brazilian has filled the void admirably, netting three times in the Premier League in six appearances.
Richarlison has spoken before of his gratitude towards Frank for the faith he has shown in him, saying: “It was very important (Frank said he would start). Since I got here, every time the transfer window opens, my name is circled as one who could leave – going back to Brazil or wherever.
“But I’ve always been focused on Tottenham and I’ve never had a conversation about leaving. I’m in a good moment.
“I hope to continue working hard and getting the opportunity to give my best.”
AFPDo Spurs have the squad to compete in four competitions?
Last season saw injuries ravage Ange Postecoglou's squad, as the now Nottingham Forest manager opted to funnel his resources towards the Europa League ultimately netting him and the club a priceless piece of silverware.
Of course, that triumph did not keep him in his position, as Tottenham finished in 17th place in the Premier League. Since Postecoglou's firing, Spurs have invested heavily in their squad, and look to be a far more robust outfit, especially in attack. Even with Solanke's injury, as well as long term knee ailments for Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison, Frank can call upon Richarlison, Kolo Muani, Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Brennan Johnson and Mathys Tel in the attacking third.
He will need all of his charges firing if Tottenham are to compete in multiple competitions this term. October sees Spurs face a tricky away tie against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and travel to Monaco in the Champions League. This Saturday, their league campaign continues with a journey to Elland Road to take on Leeds, just days after they drew 2-2 with Bodo/Glimt in the Arctic Circle.