Tottenham defender Radu Dragusin needs surgery to repair anterior cruciate ligament damage and faces an indefinite spell on the sidelines.

The Romania centre-half sustained the injury during last week’s Europa League win against Elfsborg and was withdrawn at half-time.

“We can confirm that Radu Dragusin will undergo surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his right knee,” a Tottenham statement on Tuesday morning read.

“The 23-year-old defender suffered the injury during our UEFA Europa League victory against Elfsborg last Thursday.

“Radu will be assessed by our medical team to determine when he can return to training.”

The player posted on Instagram: “Football gives you incredible moments, but also challenges—some harder than others. Unfortunately, I now face one of those challenges: a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in my right knee.

“That being said, one of the many things I’ve learned from this sport is that behind every obstacle hides an opportunity to learn and grow.

“Football doesn’t just teach you how to win—it teaches you how to fight when things get tough. A difficult period lies ahead, but I will come back stronger, and I will work hard every single day during my post-surgery recovery to make that happen.

“Even though I won’t be able to be on the pitch with my team-mates, I will support them with all my heart – both at Tottenham and with the National Team. I have no doubt that they will keep fighting with determination to achieve our goals.

“I want to thank you all for your messages of support after my injury – those mean a lot and give me even more motivation.”

Dragusin, signed from Genoa for £25million in January last year, has made a total of 28 appearances for Ange Postecoglou’s side this season, including 14 Premier League starts.

Postecoglou has been short of options in central defence in recent weeks due to an ongoing injury crisis and signed Kevin Danso from Lens on an initial loan deal with a view to a permanent deal on Tuesday.

Centre-half Micky van de Ven returned from an injury lay-off against Elfsborg.