Tottenham Hotspur's season has been distilled into a single, desperate objective: Premier League survival. With their exits from the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Champions League now complete, all energy is focused on the relegation scrap at the bottom of the table. A major factor in their dire situation has been a persistent and debilitating injury crisis, one that has haunted the squad for much of the campaign.

The recent three-week international break offered a crucial window for recovery and recalibration under manager Roberto De Zerbi. This respite is desperately needed as Spurs prepare for a critical run-in, starting with a pivotal match against Sunderland. The fitness of key players will be paramount in this fight.

The most significant concern is starting goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. The club confirmed the Italian requires hernia surgery, an issue that emerged in late March. While he bravely played through the pain against Nottingham Forest, the procedure will sideline him. The club hopes for a return "within the next month," making him a major doubt for the Sunderland clash but potentially available soon after.

As the squad regroups, the projected lineup for the upcoming fixture will heavily depend on who can return to action. The coming weeks will test the depth and resilience of every player, requiring them to perform under immense pressure to secure the club's top-flight status.