TOTTENHAM’S ambitions in the Champions League and Premier League have been dealt another huge blow with the news that Luka Modric is out of action for two weeks.

The Croatia international has had his appendix removed after complaining of abdominal pain and subsequently being diagnosed with acute appendicitis.

The diminutive playmaker will certainly miss the next three games, against Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland, and could also miss the eagerly-anticipated trip to face AC Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League on February 15.

Tottenham are now facing a crippling injury crisis, which has robbed them of three of their first-choice midfielders at a crucial period in the campaign.

Gareth Bale missed the last game with a back injury and will be absent for the next week, while Tom Huddlestone has had a setback in his recovery from the ankle injury which has sidelined him since November.