Gonzalo Higuain is set to return for Juventus to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League at Wembley next month, according to the Evening Standard.
The Argentinian striker limped out of the Derby della Mole, which Juve won 1-0, after just 15 minutes having damaged his ankle.
This last-16 tie is currently poised finely in the balance, with the two sides having drawn 2-2 in Turin following a thrilling comeback from Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Gonzalo Higuain of Juventus scores his sides second goal past Hugo Lloris of Tottenham Hotspur during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 First Leg match between Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur at Allianz Stadium on February 13, 2018 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Higuain’s return
It is understood that the 30-year-old is winning the race to be fit in time to face Spurs in the second-leg on 7 March.
In the first-leg, Higuain was heavily involved in the action, netting twice in the first nine minutes, before missing a penalty and the chance to extend the Old Lady’s lead.
Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri is optimistic that his star striker will return to face Atalanta on 28 February, or if not he is likely to be fit to face Lazio just four days before the Champions League clash.
This will come as a blow for Tottenham, with the former Real Madrid man having caused them so many issues in Turin.
Meanwhile, there also doubts as to whether attacking midfielder Federico Bernardeschi and full-back Mattia De Sciglio will be ready to face Tottenham.
The pair have recently suffered injuries and it is understood that there is concern over their availability for the second-leg.
Juventus 2-2 Tottenham
These two European heavyweights have set up a mammoth second-leg tie at Wembley.
Whilst Spurs will be looking to tighten up at the back following a frantic opening 10 minutes in Turin, Juve will be seeking a new approach having struggled to contain Pochettino’s side in the second half.
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