Spurs goalkeeper Vicario facing hernia operation next week with month out

Vicario has featured in all Premier League matches for Tottenham this campaign, with the side positioned just one point clear of the relegation places.

"The minor procedure... has been scheduled to cause the least possible disruption to our campaign," Tottenham stated, as they head into a three-week international window following their Sunday clash with Nottingham Forest.

Vicario did not make Italy's lineup for Thursdays World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland. His most recent outing for the Azzurri came in their 2-0 triumph over Moldova last November.

Gianluigi Donnarumma stood in goal for Italy during their 4-1 setback to Norway just three days after, a result that saw the Italians drop into the playoffs while Norway earned direct qualification for the World Cup.

"We expect him (Vicario) to be back playing within a months time," Tottenham mentioned.