Real Madrid will be without some major players, while Tottenham will be boosted by the return of key personnel as the two sides prepare to face off at Wembley.
As per a statement released on the club’s official site, Real Madrid will be without the services of some major players for this match. First choice goalkeeper Keylor Navas, defenders Raphael Varane and Dani Carvajal and midfielder Mateo Kovacic will not feature at Wembley on Wednesday night.
Another big name to miss out is former Tottenham boy Gareth Bale. Speaking about the Welshman’s absence earlier in the week, Zinedine Zidane said, “He’s following his recovery program,” before going on to add, “I have a group of players that are going to be ready on Wednesday.”
Missing some of his best players must make it even more difficult for the Real Madrid boss, but that excuse won’t hold up if they fail to return to Madrid will all three points. Tottenham’s injury situation, meanwhile, has eased up considerably and they will be able to welcome back Harry Kane into the squad.
The North Londoners had been missing their star striker against West Ham United and Manchester United due to a hamstring injury and his return will undoubtedly help boost Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who will also be able to call upon Dele Alli and Mousa Dembele.
Speaking ahead of the match after training on Tuesday, the Argentine said, “Harry will be on the (squad) list. We have one more day to assess him but today he was good in training. He trained with the group and was good, at the same level of the team.”
According to their official site, the only notable absentee will be Victor Wanyama, who only just started fieldwork training as he continues his recovery process from a knee injury.
However, they will be able to field an almost full strength first choice starting lineup on Wednesday as they host the reigning champions of Europe and that will undoubtedly help their cause a great extent.