Three Well-Drilled Centre-Backs Tottenham Should Look To Fill In For Jan Vertonghen

High-flying Tottenham have been hit with an injury scare as two of their trusted lieutenants in defence, Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen are on the treatment tables. Vertonghen was taken off in Spurs’ encounter against West Bromwich Albion and it was later revealed that the Belgian international will miss at least two months of action due to a knee-ligament problem. His compatriot, Alderweireld came off in the second half against Manchester City on Saturday, owing to a hamstring problem. However, he isn’t expected to be out for quite long and should soon return to the playing XI.

But with the most important part of the season approaching, Mauricio Pochettino will definitely be sweating over the fitness of his centre-backs. While Kevin Wimmer was asked to fill in for Vertonghen against City, the Austrian was so woeful, he was taken off at half-time, further questioning his suitability to this Spurs side.

Tottenham were displaced off their second place this weekend, however, they still remain in the hunt for the Premier League title, while they are still in contention for the Europa League and FA Cup. This makes it imperative for Pochettino to sign a centre-half as a cover before the January transfer window slams shut in a week’s time.

Here we provide three options that Tottenham should consider to ease their defensive injury woes.

Curtis Davies

The Hull City defender is as solid as they come in the heart of the defence and with his experience in the English football, Davies could very well be the way to go for Tottenham.

The 31-year old has been an ever-present for the Tigers this season, having featured in all the 22 Premier League games and has easily been one of the finest centre-backs in the league, but his performances go under the radar, due to his team’s struggles. Averaging an amazingly high 13 defensive actions per game, Davies has exhibited great anticipation and awareness in and around the box. A big, strong unit physically, he is excellent in the air and an astute tackler as well.

While age may prove to be a hindrance, Davies is at the top of his game and in tip-top shape. His years of experience, combined with his no-nonsense defending could prove to be a great addition for Pochettino and given Hull City’s relegation battle, the player too would be greatly tempted to move to a club that is chasing the title.

Steve Cook

Another highly underrated defender in the English top-flight, Steve Cook isn’t given the credit he deserves for his strong and solid displays in the backline for Bournemouth.

The 25-year old has been a rock at the back for the Cherries, having not missed even a single minute of the Premier league action this season. Extremely strong in the air, quite capable with the ball at his feet, the Englishman averages 13 defensive actions per game and has come on top in 79% of his attempts to dribble past opponents and 65% headed duels. Cook also has chipped in with two goals as well for Eddie Howe’s side and has shown great maturity in the backline.

A regular starter for his team, opportunities might reduce for him if he moves to White Hart Lane, but a chance to get his hands on the Premier League trophy and play European football may prove too good to turn down for Cook.

Stefan de Vrij

The 24-year old Lazio defender is reportedly being looked at by a host of Premier League clubs including Tottenham and Pochettino should act quickly if he wants to secure De Vrij’s services.

The Dutchman has emerged as one of the finest centre-backs in the Serie A over the past two years and has been constantly impressing with his classy displays at the heart of the defence for the Biancocelesti. De Vrij started the season strongly, but missed seven games in between due to injury, and has been a constant feature in the starting XI ever since his return. The Dutchman has made 36 interceptions and 55 clearances in his 14 appearances for Lazio this term and has also chipped in with a goal.

A good tackler, and an excellent reader of situations, De Vrij also possesses a decent turn of pace that helps out in difficult situations. And standing at 6ft 2in, he is no slouch physically as well. He may not be the biggest of the names, but could become a huge hit at the Lane if Tottenham decides to make a move.