Modric out

Where's a Sistine Chapel Photoshop filter when you need one?

Tottenham dealt Luka Modric appendix blow - ESPN Soccernet

Tottenham's title challenge has suffered a fresh blow with the news Luka Modric is facing two weeks on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his appendix.

Croatian star Modric has been a shining light for Spurs, with his craft in the middle of the park sparking their efforts both domestically and in Europe. But he was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery to remove his appendix on Tuesday and is facing time out as he recovers.

Modric could now miss Spurs' Champions League last-16 first leg at AC Milan on February 15 and is definitely out of Wednesday's Premier League game at Blackburn, Saturday's home clash with Bolton and the following weekend's trip to Sunderland.

This week I sold Van der Vaart for Fabregas. Yes, it was a stupid move and has already back-fired on me. But this confirms the sentiment that Spurs are stalled or in a bit of turmoil. They're now without Bale and Modric in midfield and are so thin at the back that they're likely to field Bassong and Woodgate against Rovers today.

It sure would be interesting to see O'Hara and Bentley take the opportunity to play some first team matches for Spurs, but yes, they've been loaned out to Birmingham and Wolves, respectively. It's going to be up to Jenas and Krancjar (Free Nico!) - and Spurs' misfiring strikers, of course - to take the burden off VDV.

Interesting times.