Emmanuel Adebayor Given Permission to Return Home: Latest News on Tottenham Star

Emmanuel Adebayor has been granted a leave of absence by Tottenham, who cited "personal reasons" upon announcing the news.

Continue for updates.

Thursday, Dec. 11

Adebayor Expected to Return Within a Week

ESPN reports that Adebayor left the country due to a family illness. However, he is expected back soon, as confirmed by Mauricio Pochettino:

"

I hope he sorts his problems. I don't know how long [he will be out] but we hope he will stay with us next week to train. When you have a problem, your mind is not quite... it is difficult to give your best.

I have always told you that players are human. Family is important. They need to fix when family matters happen. You need to sort it. If not, it is difficult to give the best.

It is important that he takes time, sorts out the problem and when he is back is ready to train and available.

"

Wednesday, Dec. 10

Adebayor Given Leave of Absence

Tottenham have confirmed striker Emmanuel Adebayor has been given permission to return to Togo.

The 30-year-old's departure was confirmed by the club's official Twitter account, although details are sparse:

Matt Law of the Daily Telegraph reported on the reason for Adebayor's departure from the club:

Adebayor has scored two goals in nine Premier League appearances this season, per WhoScored.com.

The powerful striker has fallen out of favour under Mauricio Pochettino and has been unable to build on the excellent form shown when previous manager Tim Sherwood brought him back into the starting lineup.

Scott Heppell/Associated Press

He recently criticised Spurs fans who booed the team—saying "it might be better to play away," per BBC Sport—during a poor bout of form at White Hart Lane. His exit places greater importance on the emerging Harry Kane and Roberto Soldado, Pochettino's preferred partnership this season.

Further news can be expected soon.