Mateus Fernandes’ mysterious absence from Tottenham training has been solved

Mateus Fernandes missed Tottenham Hotspur's recent training sessions because he became a father for the first time. Supporters had grown concerned about a potential injury after the 22-year-old midfielder was absent from club training footage ahead of their trip to Marbella, but Fernandes cleared up the speculation on Thursday by announcing the birth of his newborn son, Goncalo, on Instagram.

The former West Ham midfielder, signed for £85 million, appears to have been granted time off to spend with his family. Bharad Thirumalai writes that with Rodrigo Bentancur facing a three-match suspension following a red card against Manchester United, manager Roberto De Zerbi could soon provide Fernandes with regular starting opportunities in central midfield.