Spurs at risk of losing key player for Chelsea clash due to unique Premier League rule

Tottenham Hotspur might face a setback in their upcoming showdown against Chelsea, all thanks to an unusual Premier League regulation.

Currently leading the Premier League standings, Spurs have a golden opportunity to widen the gap with their closest rivals, Manchester City, to five points provided they secure a victory against Crystal Palace this Friday evening.

Under the helm of Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham has emerged as an undefeated force this season, claiming notable victories against the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool. Their resilience was evident in a gritty 2-2 draw against Arsenal, showcasing their determination to maintain their winning streak.

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The Australian boss has had to make some tough decisions throughout his short time in charge to date, including his decision to effectively freeze out club veterans Hugo Lloris and Eric Dier.

In their place, Guglielmo Vicario and Micky van de Ven have been signed to play key roles, and both have impressed so far this season.

James Maddison, meanwhile, has been another star signing, while Son Heung-min has returned to top form in front of goal.

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Another key player for Spurs is a player who was signed last summer, but saw little first team action under Antonio Conte during his first campaign.

That player is the combative Yves Bissouma, who has been an integral part of the Spurs side in the centre of midfield.

The Mali international ranks fifth out of all Premier League players for tackles this season, and has displaced Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the side.

But Bissouma missed Spurs’ 2-0 win over Fulham after receiving two yellow cards in the victory over Luton earlier this month.

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The 27-year-old took his yellow card tally up to six games as a result – but the risk of a further ban has not disappeared for the midfielder.

Because he received two bookings in the same game – and was banned as a result – they did not count as part of his overall tally for suspensions.

Therefore, while the midfielder has been booked six times, he is listed as only having four yellow cards on his record.

And if Bissouma gets booked against Palace on Friday, he will receive an automatic one-match ban and miss the upcoming London derby against Chelsea.