The striker's latest setback was an illness which is likely to rule him out of Wednesday's Capital One Cup clash with Norwich.

A string of back and hamstring injuries, as well as the fine form of Jermain Defoe in the lone striker's role, has meant Adebayor's opportunities have been limited since joining Spurs permanently from Manchester City.

The 28-year-old was expected to have his first start of the season at Carrow Road, but Freund said the striker may not recover in time.

"Adebayor came in, he's really sick, let's have a look tomorrow," Freund told reporters.

"If you're not playing and you're injured then of course you are not happy."

Freund though, did make sure to reiterate the long-term importance of Adebayor to Spurs and their head coach Andre Villas-Boas, labelling the Togolese international as one of the division's finest forwards.

"He's a big player. Hopefully he will be back in time. He is one of the best strikers in the Premier League," Freund said.

"We are happy to have him back here. We need every Tottenham Hotspur player. If Andre wants to rotate or change the position up front, it's good to have every player fit."