Why was Hugo Lloris substituted at halftime?
The Tottenham Hotspur captain had a game to forget against Newcastle United and was replaced at the break after conceding five.
Sunday’s trip to Newcastle United must rank as the nadir of a deeply disappointing season for Tottenham Hotspur. The final result, a 6-1 defeat, was set into motion by an astonishing opening 20 minutes that saw Spurs concede five times.
Christian Stellini’s side looked shorn of all confidence and few suffered as much as goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The 36-year-old has been a top servant in his 11 years at the club but looked well past his best at St. James’ Park.
Lloris was substituted at halftime in the loss at Newcastle. On the club’s official match centre Tottenham claimed that the captain’s departure was an enforced change.
“Substitution, Tottenham Hotspur. Fraser Forster replaces Hugo Lloris because of an injury,” it read.
Speaking after the game Stellini echoed this claim, telling reporters: “He got injured. It was a muscle problem. He had to come off.”
What next for Hugo Lloris?
The Frenchman has been a near-ever present for much of his 11 years at the club, making 447 appearances in all competitions. However this year has been difficult for Lloris and his general level of performance has dropped dramatically.
In addition to that, the once-rare mistakes that Spurs fans endured have become increasingly frequent.
On Sunday, Murphy strike from distance and Isak’s second goal both highlighted Lloris’ struggles for form this campaign.
Fraser Forster replaced him at half time at St James’ Park and could be a steady pair of hands for the remainder of the season if Lloris is unable to return to the side. The 35-year-old played six games earlier this year when Lloris was out with injury.