English-Nigerian forward Dominic Solanke could return for Tottenham’s clash against Frankfurt

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank says Dominic Solanke may return in time for next month’s Champions League meeting with Eintracht Frankfurt.

The English striker, who has Nigerian heritage, has been sidelined since August with an ankle injury.

Spurs replaced him with Mathys Tel in their Champions League squad, using an option that allows temporary changes when long-term injuries occur.

Frank explained the selection rule after Spurs’ victory over Slavia Prague. He said the requirement for an injured player to be unavailable for 60 days limited how soon the change could be made.

“It’s not like I could have done it three games ago,” he said. “It was just an opportunity to get Tel in, which is nice. We can change back if we want.”

Solanke’s absence has forced Tottenham to adjust their attacking structure, with Tel offering depth across the front line.

Frank indicated that Solanke will be reinstated once he is cleared. “As soon as he’s ready and available, then I will say when he’s ready,” he said.

The uncertainty over Solanke’s exact return date persists, but optimism around his progress has grown.

The club believes he has a realistic chance of featuring against Eintracht Frankfurt, although they will not take risks with his recovery.

Solanke has been a central figure in Tottenham’s attacking plans since joining the club, and his efficient movement around the penalty area has been difficult to replicate in his absence.

His injury in August disrupted his strong start, leaving Tel and others to cover the workload across domestic and European fixtures.

Frank has stressed caution throughout Solanke’s rehabilitation, but his tone has shifted as reports from the medical staff improved. The manager welcomes the option to restore Solanke to the squad once available, which Champions League rules allow during the group stage.

Tottenham’s schedule intensifies next month, and Solanke’s possible return would give Frank greater flexibility in key matches.