Lloris held out of Tottenham-Newcastle clash

Posted Tuesday, November 12, 2013 by YAHOO Sport

Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has been given "a couple more days" to recover from a concussion sustained against Everton.

The France captain collided heavily with Romelu Lukaku in the 0-0 draw at Goodison Park on Nov. 3 and was knocked unconscious after the Belgian's knee clattered into the side of his head.

Lloris was set to be replaced by Brad Friedel but convinced the physios that he was able to continue and went on to preserve his clean sheet.

However, after being rested against Sheriff in the Europa League in midweek, Lloris again found himself out of Andre Villas-Boas' squad to face Newcastle on Sunday, with Friedel between the sticks and Heurelho Gomes on the bench.

"We've continued to monitor Hugo all week and, after discussions, Andre and the medical department have agreed to afford the player a couple more days rest," said Tottenham's head of medical services, Wayne Diesel. "Hugo is naturally disappointed as he was keen to return to action. However, we feel this decision is in the player's best interest."

Villas-Boas has defended himself against suggestions that Spurs put Lloris' health at risk by deciding against replacing him against Everton.