Tottenham will make a late check on Tuesday morning on whether shattered forward Son Heung-min is mentally ready to travel to Red Star Belgrade for their vital Champions League clash.
Son was left distraught on Sunday after his challenge led Everton defender Andre Gomes to suffer his horrific broken and dislocated ankle injury at Goodison Park.
The Korean forward was shown a red card by referee Martin Atkinson for the initial challenge on Gomes during the 1-1 draw – but on Monday Tottenham lodged an appeal against the sending off.
Son meanwhile has been offered counselling by Tottenham to help him get over the trauma – and there is a doubt over whether the 27-year-old will be psychologically ready to play in Belgrade.
Son was visibly upset about the injury Gomes, who was left screaming on the pitch after the Tottenham star’s initial challenge saw him catch his ankle in the turf before colliding with Serge Aurier.
Spurs will make a decision later on Tuesday on Son’s well-being before they travel to take on Red Star.
Son, who left the pitch in tears, was consoled later on Sunday by Everton skipper Seamus Coleman, who suffered a similar injury to Gomes, and the the forward is expected to reach out to the Portuguese in the coming days.
Gomes had surgery on the ankle on Monday at Aintree Hospital, and Everton said in a statement: “Andre underwent surgery to repair a fracture dislocation to his right ankle earlier today and the procedure went extremely well.
“The Portugal international will now spend some time recovering in hospital, before returning to Finch Farm to start his rehabilitation under the guidance of the Club’s medical staff. The 26-year-old is expected to make a full recovery.
“On behalf of Andre, the Club would like to thank all Everton supporters and members of the wider football family for the overwhelming messages of support we have received since Sunday’s match.”
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is though also hoping that key striker Harry Kane has recovered from the virus which saw him miss the Everton game – while Jan Vertonghen and Erik Lamela also face late tests on injuries.
Spurs got their Group B campaign back on track with a 5-0 win over Red Star two weeks ago, but need another win on Wednesday to consolidate their position behind leaders Bayern Munich.