Sport
Spurs keeper Vicario undergoes surgery after playing an HOUR with broken ankle
GUGLIELMO VICARIO has had surgery on a broken ankle – after revealing he spent an hour playing with the injury at the Etihad.
The Tottenham keeper required treatment on the pitch and “gave absolutely everything” in a 4-0 win over Manchester City but now faces a long period of rest.
Vicario's saves in the top flight particularly hampered Erling Haaland, while Ange Postecoglou's men stunned the Prem champions on Saturday.
But Spurs have confirmed the Italian underwent surgery two days later.
Vicario commented on Instagram: “Sometimes football gives you its highlights and sometimes it challenges you in ways you don't expect.
“I played 60 minutes at the Etihad with a broken ankle. I gave absolutely everything I had for the team.
“Unfortunately I couldn't avoid this… I had to have surgery… See you soon on the field.”
Spurs said on Monday evening: “We can confirm that Guglielmo Vicario has today undergone surgery for a fracture of his right ankle.
“Guglielmo will be assessed by our medical staff to determine when he can return to training. We're all behind you, Vic.”
The £17million stopper has gradually established himself in Prem football after joining from Empoli in June 2023.
And he featured prominently both after and during Saturday's thrilling but surprising success against Pep Guardiola's men.
Vicario cheered the win on social media with a message many believed was aimed at his doubters.
He wrote: “A lot of noise lately.. but this is why we do it. Big win away from home. #COYS @SpursOfficial.”
Tottenham supporters have since rallied following news of his surgery.
One posted: “Now our fans are really going to learn to respect him.”
Others are concerned about the rising number of injuries at the club.
One said: “Not good… That win could come at a huge cost, especially as we are already four to five players behind.”
Richarlison and virus-stricken 17-year-old Mikey Moore are among the victims.
And Rodrigo Bentancur has been banned for seven matches after a racist comment about Spurs teammate Son Heung-min.
Meanwhile, Vicario added in his post-op Instagram post on Monday: “I'm disappointed that I won't be able to help the team for a while.
“Many thanks to the doctors and staff. The operation went well and from tomorrow I will work hard to come back stronger, fitter, and ready to give everything for you again.”
“Thank you to the Spurs fans for all the love.”