Tottenham have been hit by the news that key defender Younes Kaboul may not be fit until the end of February after a setback in his recovery from a pre-season knee injury.
Kaboul, 26, has not kicked a ball this term and has had to watch from the sidelines as Andre Villas-Boas's men have conceded a host of late goals which have cost them dearly in the race for the title.
It had been hoped that the France centre-back would be fit for the start of 2013 but assistant manager Steffen Freund confirmed that the 26-year-old could have to wait at least six weeks before he is available for selection.
"He's on a six-week programme from the medical staff and starting to work now with the fitness coaches,'' Freund told a press conference. "It's difficult to say now which game he will be back but hopefully mid- or end of February.''
Although Spurs sit third in the Premier League, Kaboul is a big miss and Freund is looking forward to having him back in the ranks next month.
"He's a really important part of Tottenham,'' Freund added. "He has a lot of leadership qualities and we are waiting to have him back as quickly as possible. He is frustrated. He likes to be involved - especially when you are successful.''
