Tottenham have been handed a worrying injury setback, with Roberto De Zerbi confirming that Mathys Tel suffered a “bad injury” during Saturday’s defeat to Leeds United.

The French forward was forced off shortly before half-time after being caught on the ankle by Jayden Bogle during a first-half challenge that sparked a lengthy VAR review.

Tel initially attempted to continue after receiving treatment, but was unable to play on and was replaced by Dominic Solanke in the 43rd minute.

De Zerbi provides worrying Mathys Tel injury update

Speaking after the 1-0 defeat at Elland Road, De Zerbi confirmed to the club’s official website that the winger had suffered a significant problem with his ankle.

“Mathys had a bad injury on the ankle. We need to make a medical check to understand the situation.”

Roberto De Zerbi

The Tottenham head coach was asked again about the severity of the injury during his post-match press conference.

“Bad injury. Now we have to make the medical checks and in the next day we will know the problem.”

Roberto De Zerbi

That leaves Spurs waiting for further medical assessments before the full extent of the damage becomes clear. There is no confirmed diagnosis or return date at this stage.

It is particularly frustrating timing for Tel, who had begun to build momentum in recent weeks after scoring a superb solo goal in the win over Chelsea and impressing under De Zerbi.

The 21-year-old’s injury was one of several disappointing moments in an afternoon when Tottenham struggled to find their best form.

We looked at three reasons Spurs lost at Leeds, with poor decision-making, a lack of midfield control and a flat second-half display all contributing to the defeat.

For now, the priority will be finding out exactly how serious Tel’s ankle injury is. Supporters will be hoping the medical checks bring some reassurance.