It is currently yet to be confirmed how long Palacios will be sidelined for, however, it is integral to Spurs’ season that the Honduran returns sooner rather than later. Palacios, is one of Spurs’ most key players.

Palacios fills the role that in modern football every team seems to need; the defensive midfielder. Palacios power and strength allow him to help control the pace of the match to one that suits the Spurs, he is able to both stutter opposition attacks and develop them for his own side. It is only in the recent year or so that the Honduran has really been starting to get the credit he deserves, with many noticing the potential that he held at his previous club; Wigan Athletic.

His influence on the pitch and tireless work rate are epitomized by the comments of Frank Lampard, one of the world’s greatest midfielders, who claimed that Palacios was the hardest midfielder he had ever played against, highlighting his struggle to compete with the Honduran’s power and speed.

Redknapp looked to shake things up and instantly stressed his desire to inject more bite and backbone into the Tottenham side, and with the signature of Palacios, that’s exactly what he did. The center of Spurs’ midfield has been as key as any position to the success that the team has experienced in the early stages of the campaign. He has forged a partnership with the blossoming Tom Huddlestone that provides a balance that Spurs sides of previous seasons have lacked, and the club finally looks like they might fulfill the potential and promise that a club of their size and stature demands.

Although Palacios contributed to the departure of former defensive midfielder Didier Zokora, it would be foolish to suggest that his attributes lie just in his defensive qualities. Palacios has been described as the ‘complete midfielder’ by former manager Steve Bruce, and he offers Spurs as many attacking benefits as he does defensive. He plays with drive and aggression and must be a nightmare for any central midfielder to line up against. He represents a valuable asset and is the mold of a player that all successful clubs seek, boasting huge power and efficiency.

Spurs fans will hope that the injury sustained to the Honduran yesterday is not serious and will keep their fingers crossed that he is back for a crucial fixture with Manchester City in 9 days time. He is likely to play a key role in what promises to be an exciting season for Tottenham Hotspur.