The smile is back for Victor after 'the worst time for a player'

Victor Wanyama’s smile lights up Hotspur Way - but it’s been harder to find as he’s battled back from injury in the last four months.

It was back at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium as he returned to action for the first time since August 20 off the bench to help see us home to a 2-0 win on Tuesday night.

Such a bubbly character off the pitch, these have been testing times for the midfield powerhouse. Mauricio Pochettino told us last week: “Victor is always smiling when he’s involved but when he’s not involved or he’s injured, like any player, he’s not happy. It’s been tough for him but that’s football and it happens.”

Had it been like that for him? “Yes, it’s been like that,” said Victor. “I don’t like it, no-one likes it because those are the bad times, the worst times for a player, when you get injured and can’t play.

“It's been a very tough time for me but I'm strong and I've fought my way back.

“Now I feel better and it's good to be back. I'm focusing on staying injury-free and trying to help the team. My team-mates have helped me come through it and I’m happy to be playing again.

Feels great to be back on the pitch again.thank you everyone for all the support. 3 tough points #COYSpic.twitter.com/AoqhefB7rj

— Victor Wanyama (@VictorWanyama) January 2, 2018

“It’s been hard but mentally I’m strong. I’ve just focused on getting better. I’m glad that I’m back now and I’m ready to work hard and help the team.”

Victor was impressed with how the team ‘dug deep’ to come away from Swansea with three points. “Everyone fought for the team, we showed character,” he said - and he knows the hard work continues with a derby against West Ham just 48 hours on at Wembley this evening (8pm).