Emerson Royal will miss several crucial matches for Tottenham in the final stretch of the Premier League after undergoing surgery for a left knee injury.
The news of his setback came as the team entered their final 10 league games, making it unlikely that the Brazil international would play again this season.
With Emerson Royal out injured, Spurs have Pedro Porro at right-back and the Spaniard is expected to see time in the starting lineup.
The north London giants let Matt Doherty join Atletico Madrid on loan in January, so acting head coach Cristian Stellini will hope Porro stays fit.
Tottenham said in a statement: “We can confirm that Emerson Royal suffered a meniscus injury to his left knee while on international duty with Brazil last week.
“The defender will undergo surgery before beginning his rehabilitation with our medical staff.”
Emerson Royal has made 32 appearances for Tottenham this season, taking all competitions into account, including 23 starts.
He played in Brazil’s 2-1 friendly defeat to Morocco on Saturday, suffering the injury in the 90th minute after a challenge from Sofyan Amrabat.
We can confirm that Emerson Royal suffered a meniscus injury to his left knee while on international duty with Brazil last week.
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 28, 2023
The defender will undergo surgery before beginning his rehabilitation with our medical staff.
We're all behind you, Royal 💙 pic.twitter.com/SaZV3uuyge