Tottenham defenders Jan Vertonghen and Kyle Walker will miss the upcoming Premier League clash against Watford after being booked in tonight's victory over Southampton.
Vertonghen was forced to walk a disciplinary tightrope after picking up cautions against Crystal Palace, Liverpool, West Brom and Bournemouth but fell foul of the officials at St. Mary's this evening following a late clash with Shane Long.
As a result the Belgian defender will be automatically banned for accumulating five bookings, ruling him out of his side's clash with Walter Mazzarri's side on Sunday January 1.
Vertonghen's absence will come as a blow to Mauricio Pochettino, with Toby Alderweireld doubtful after missing tonight's game with a virus.
Alderweireld has finally shaken off the knee injury he suffered against West Brom in October but Spurs could face a selection dilemma against the Hornets if he fails to recover.
However, Pochettino has experimented with a three-man defence in recent weeks, which could be another option for the Argentine coach while Vertonghen is sidelined.
Walker, meanwhile, picked up a caution for a clumsy challenge against the Saints and is likely to be replaced by Kieran Trippier.
Victor Wanyama was also forced to walk a defensive tightrope at his former club but will avoid the immediate threat of a suspension with the first booking amnesty of the season set to take place on December 31.
