Great to have Victor available - Mauricio

Victor Wanyama’s return is perfect timing for Mauricio Pochettino.

Mauricio reports the powerhouse midfielder is available to play after being sidelined for over four months with a knee injury.

Now back in full training, Victor was part of the matchday squad for our Boxing Day match against Southampton - he didn’t make the final 18 - and now set to provide further options for the manager for a busy week ahead.

We return to action with a trip to Swansea in the Premier League on January 2, then face West Ham at Wembley two days later with AFC Wimbledon to follow in the FA Cup at Wembley on January 7.

“Victor is going to be ready and now there is a lot of competition in the squad,” said Mauricio. “Now, only Toby is still out. It’s great for the team to be available in such a busy schedule.

“Victor was involved in the last game and now we have a lot of players who can be involved and we’ll see. The good news is that he’s training and available for selection.”

Such a bubbly character off the pitch, it’s been a tough spell for Victor. “He’s 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. You have to be strong."