Yves Bissouma will miss the opening game of the new Premier League campaign after being suspended by Tottenham. The 27-year-old landed himself in hot water over the weekend by posting a video on social media which appeared to show him inhaling nitrous oxide.
Bissouma later issued a public apology for his behaviour in a statement, saying: "This was a severe lack of judgment. 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."
Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou was quizzed on the situation in Thursday's press conference and confirmed that Bissouma would not be considered for selection against Leicester City on Monday night.
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"I've been in the game for a long time and when a situation like this arises I've tried to look at them in a couple of ways," said Postecoglou. "First there's a person and it's Biss and he has made a really poor decision. You want to help him through that.
"There are sanctions involved, some of those including education. You always want to give people to learn from their mistakes. He won’t be available for Monday, we have suspended him from Monday’s game.
"He needs to build that trust back with both me and the group. The door is open for him and we can help him realise the decisions he makes impact the group."
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Asked to explain how Bissouma would be able to earn back his trust, Postecoglou replied: "Behaviour, mate, it's that simple. It's about making better decisions. He was very apologetic to me, the club and everyone involved but that's just part of it. We all make mistakes. It is how we make our way back from those mistakes."
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, was made illegal last year with possession and sale for recreational purposes considered a criminal offence. Those caught with nitrous oxide for unlawful reasons could face a caution or an unlimited fine, while repeat offenders could serve up to two years in prison.
Bissouma made 26 league starts for Tottenham last season and will be hoping to play a key role for the north Londoners throughout the upcoming campaign. He has been at the club since 2022, when he joined from Brighton in a deal worth around £25million plus add-ons.
