Ghana international Mohammed Kudus returned to action on Saturday after a seven-month injury lay-off, but could do little to prevent Tottenham Hotspur from suffering a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Kudus was introduced in the 68th minute with Tottenham already trailing, replacing Mathys Tel as manager Roberto De Zerbi looked to change the course of the game.
However, the Ghanaian was unable to inspire a comeback as Newcastle secured the win, with Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa scoring the goals.
Kudus had been sidelined since suffering an injury against Sunderland on January 4, 2026, before suffering a relapse in April that further delayed his return.
The 26-year-old missed 237 days of football and 25 matches for Tottenham in all competitions, while his extended absence also ruled him out of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
His return came after De Zerbi had indicated ahead of the game that Kudus would be included in the squad.
The midfielder resumed individual training in early August before returning to team sessions as he completed his rehabilitation.
While his comeback will be welcomed by Tottenham and Ghana, Kudus will now have to build up his fitness and sharpness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The defeat leaves Tottenham with two consecutive losses at the start of the campaign.
