Huge boost for Tottenham as both Messi and Suarez could miss Camp Nou clash

December 11, 2018 By Ali M.

Topics: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Ernesto Valverde, Barcelona, Tottenham, UEFA Champions League

Pochettino's men, who could be eliminated should they fail to win, may not face the daunting task of stopping the two South American stars.

Given the permutations, Tottenham might have been handed a huge lifeline in the Champions League with both Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi tipped to miss Tuesday's clash. This was as revealed by Ernesto Valverde in a pre-match press conference for their Camp Nou showdown.

The north London giant will visit the Blaugrana in their final group game of Europe's top-tier club competition knowing that they could be set for an early exit. While the Premier League outfit sits in second place, ahead of Inter Milan on head-to-head away goals, the Italians will face the already eliminated PSV while Pochettino's men will have to beat the Spanish giant or risk being leapfrogged.

Given that they were dismantled 4-2 at the hands of Messi and Suarez, news that the two South American stars might miss this tie is music to the ears of Spurs fans. While question marks linger over La Pulga's participation, Valverde revealed that their Uruguayan striker will play no part.

“I don't know if we'll have Lionel Messi out there for two games in three days," the manager said, as per the Sun.

"But Luis Suarez is definitely not going to play.”

The logic behind this move is understandable. The Catalan heavyweight has already secured progression and has already won their group, meaning not a lot is at stake for them on Tuesday.

Resting their five-time Ballon d'Or winner could help avoid burnout in the later and more crucial stages of this competition. Suarez, on the other hand, has had issues with his knee throughout this campaign and is believed to be nursing an injury despite starting and scoring in the 4-0 win over Espanyol.

While Barcelona will still be a formidable side in the absence of their two talisman forwards, Tottenham's task could be made easier. Winning at Camp Nou won't be easy, but that's what they will need if they do not want to get relegated to the Europa League.