Tottenham Hotspur have been without Toby Alderweireld since November due to a hamstring injury, but it seems that they will be getting their defender back sooner rather than later.

The Belgian has been an integral part of Mauricio Pochettino's back line since his move from Atletico Madrid in 2015.

This season, though, the 28-year-old was struck down with a hamstring problem in the first half of Spurs' 3-1 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League.

The club have always maintained that Alderweireld would be ready for action in February, but it seems that he may return slightly earlier than scheduled.

The defender has told Sky Sports News that he is in the right shape to jump back into the team immediately.

"I feel good. I feel fit. I'm strong. I feel ready to give 100 per cent again, like I always do. I worked very hard to come back to the training group as quickly as possible. Not one thing in my head is doubting about the injury. Now it's up to me to prove that I'm ready again to the manager. It's always up to the manager. I'm looking forward to give my all on the pitch."

Pochettino's men will switch their attention to the FA Cup this weekend when they take on Newport County in the fourth round of the competition.

Given the level of opposition, Pochettino may give Alderweireld a runout in order to get him closer to match fitness.

As expected, fans are delighted that their star player is back.

https://video.footballfancast.com/video-2015/mike-dean.mp4