The tournament could be over for Egypt as early as January 28 with the final set for February 10. He will fly out after the trip to Manchester City on January 4 for a friendly against Nigeria on January 9, which clashes with Tottenham’s FA Cup third round tie at Leicester. Effectively, thereafter four further Premiership games would be the most he would miss, but there’s a possibility it could be just one.
Nonetheless, a long absence could dent results at the start of the year, and Martin Jol could decide to add strength up front when the transfer window opens at the beginning of the New Year.
Grzegorz Rasiak made only his third start for the club last night since arriving earlier in the season as cover for the then suspended Mido. However Jol reverted back to his favourite target man option with twenty minutes remaining at the Hawthorns.
According to the Daily Mirror, Jol is ready to make an audacious swoop for Henrik Larsson who would cost a nominal fee.
The former Celtic striker has had a difficult time since moving to Barcelona two years ago. As well as injuries (a serious knee injury in his first season), he has consequently found his chances limited at the Nou Camp behind the first choice pairing of Samuel Eto'o and Ronaldinho. As a result, Larsson has insisted he will return home to Sweden in July, but also revealed earlier this week that he will listen to any offers when the transfer window opens. Whether that includes clubs outside his native homeland might remain to be seen.
Spurs now welcome Newcastle United on Saturday for a third Premiership game in six days. Graeme Souness’ side had the night off after bad weather forced the late postponement of their home game against Charlton.