Frank Thomas Provides Update on Spurs Striker Dominic Solanke

Solanke Ruled Out, Son to Captain Spurs in Emotional Seoul Farewell

As Tottenham Hotspur continue their pre-season tour in South Korea, Head Coach Frank Thomas has offered a timely update on striker Dominic Solanke’s fitness status, though it’s not the news fans were hoping for.

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Solanke, who has yet to feature in the last two friendlies, will remain sidelined again for Spurs' upcoming clash against Newcastle United in Seoul on Sunday. Speaking on Saturday morning to SPURSPLAY, Thomas confirmed that the forward’s return is taking a little longer than expected, but there is no significant concern behind the scenes.

“Dominic is unfortunately not quite ready,” Thomas shared. “He’s taking slightly a bit longer. Again, not overly concerned, but he's not available for the Newcastle game.”

The decision is a precautionary one, as Tottenham Hotspur look to manage their attacking options carefully ahead of a demanding season. With Solanke's absence extending, eyes will turn to other forwards to step up in Seoul.

Despite that setback, the squad overall appears in good shape following their 1-0 win over Arsenal in Hong Kong, a match that saw both high intensity and tactical discipline. Thomas acknowledged the physical toll of travel and back-to-back matches but remained upbeat.

“Everyone else looks good, a few tired bodies naturally after the Arsenal game and travelling to Seoul, but touch wood everyone is good,” he added.

There was also a welcome sight in Hong Kong: the return of James Maddison. The influential midfielder came off the bench late in the game, marking his first minutes on the pitch since suffering a knee injury in the UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg against Bodø/Glimt in May.

“Yes, very happy to have Madders back, obviously a very important player for us,” said Thomas. “So it was positive getting some minutes into him.”

James Maddison has returned to fitness.

Meanwhile, emotions are expected to run high on Sunday as Heung-Min Son prepares to lead the team out at the Seoul World Cup Stadium for the final time in a Spurs shirt. The South Korean star publicly announced his intention to leave the club after a decade of service.

“It is very clear and it is no secret that Sonny will start tomorrow and lead the team out,” Thomas confirmed. “If it is to be his last game, it could be a beautiful ending in his home.”

With Solanke watching from the sidelines and Son potentially taking his final bow, Spurs’ fixture against Newcastle promises to be charged with both sentiment and opportunity as Thomas continues to shape his evolving squad.