Manchester United's next Premier League opponent Tottenham have suffered an injury setback to a key defender ahead of their October 10 meeting at Old Trafford. Jan Paul van Hecke, the centre-back signed from Brighton this summer, has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad after being injured in training.

Van Hecke lasted just seven minutes in a Netherlands session before being forced to leave. He has now returned to his club for further treatment on the issue, which is understood to have originated during an away match against Serbia. The defender is a mainstay in manager Roberto De Zerbi's back line, making his absence a significant blow. His injury compounds a difficult start for Spurs, who have conceded 12 goals in their first five Premier League matches, a key factor in their position at the bottom of the standings.

Tottenham's defensive options under pressure

This development worsens a significant injury list for Tottenham. The club is already without several key players, including Pedro Porro, Dejan Kulusevski, and Mykhailo Mudryk. In Van Hecke's absence for the national team, Arsenal's Jurrien Timber has been named as a candidate to replace him for their upcoming Nations League match against Greece.

Van Hecke joined Tottenham in a deal worth £52 million, a move intended to solidify their defence. His sudden unavailability adds to the challenges for a side that currently sits 20th in the Premier League table with just two points from a possible fifteen. United will be looking to capitalise on any defensive fragility when they host Spurs. Erik ten Hag's team currently occupies 12th place with five points from their opening five matches, a record of one win, two draws and two losses. Their most recent result was a 1-1 draw away to Fulham, extending their winless run to three league games. The full picture of both teams' availability for the clash will be reflected in the latest injuries report after the international break.

With the international break concluding, focus shifts directly to the league clash at Old Trafford. The match presents an opportunity for United to improve their league standing against a struggling rival. The last meeting between the sides at Old Trafford ended in a 2-0 victory for the hosts.

The report in full is at London Evening Standard