Tottenham suspend Yves Bissouma over laughing gas video

NEW DELHI: Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou announced that midfielder Yves Bissouma has been suspended for Monday's match against Leicester after a video surfaced on social media showing him inhaling laughing gas.

The 27-year-old has apologized for what he termed a "severe lack of judgement."

Nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, has been illegal for recreational use in the UK since 2023, with penalties including up to a two-year prison sentence for repeat offenders.

Postecoglou addressed the situation during a pre-match press conference on Thursday.

"We've suspended him for Monday's game," said Postecoglou.

"The door is open for him and hopefully we can help him to realise the decisions he makes impact more than just him.

"Hopefully it allows him to make better decisions moving forward."

Bissouma, who was acquired by Spurs from Brighton for £30 million in 2022, played 45 minutes in Tottenham's friendly loss to Bayern Munich on Saturday.

Later that day, he posted a video on social media showing himself inhaling from a balloon.

"I want to apologise for these videos. This was a severe lack of judgement," said Bissouma in a statement.

"I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved, and I also take my responsibility as a footballer and role model very seriously."

In a positive development for Postecoglou, Dominic Solanke is set to make his debut as the Premier League season kicks off this weekend.

Solanke joined Tottenham from Bournemouth in a deal that could rise to £65 million, following a season in which he scored 19 Premier League goals.

"Thankfully it's what we expected. He's a top pro and a good guy, he's settled into the dressing room really well," added Postecoglou.

"Football-wise you can see he has all the attributes we need. He still needs time to fit in. He's fitting in well with the group and training. We've still got a couple of training sessions to go but he's doing well. He should be (available on Monday)."

Tottenham finished fifth in Postecoglou's first season as they faded after a stunning start to the Australian's reign.

The former Celtic boss believes his side are better placed to qualify for the Champions League this season.

"We feel a lot more settled and better prepared for what's ahead," he said.

"There were a lot of unknowns last year at this time. Having said all that, it didn't stop us from having a great start to the season.

"The pleasing thing is pretty much everyone on the list is available and that will be important for us. After the (September) international break, Europe starts and the Carabao (League) Cup, so we'll need all our players."