It will be an all-London affair on Saturday when Spurs take on Crystal Palace in the second gameweek of the new season. Spurs opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw at Everton last weekend, while Palace started their season with a disappointing 1-0 defeat against West Bromwich Albion.
Spurs finishing third in the Premier League last campaign suggests that the Lilywhites had a strong campaign exceeding their expectations. There was a feeling that it was a missed opportunity for the North London side to clinch the title. It was always Leicester city’s title to lose but losing the second spot to none other than rivals Arsenal on the final day was painful for the fans.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace had a surprisingly up and down last season. They were in contention for top-four until the New Year which was highly impressive from Pardew but since the New Year, we got to see the same old Pardew and the Eagles were almost dragged into the relegation scrap.
On paper, Spurs look too strong for their London rivals but you never know what sort of Crystal Palace turn up against the Lilywhites on Saturday. When it’s a London derby, it’s always exciting for the neutrals.
Team news
Spurs
Spurs were dealt with a major bad news as their first-choice keeper Hugo Lloris will miss the next four weeks with a hamstring injury. Mousa Dembele will miss the game with a suspension carried forward from the last season. Kevin Wimmer is out with a hamstring injury while Son Heung-Min lacks match fitness.
Crystal Palace
James Tomkins is doubtful for the game with a minor layoff as well as James McArthur. Jonathan Williams, Bakary Sako and Fraizer Campbell are all definitely missing through injuries.
Predicted lineups
Tottenham (4-2-3-1)
Vorm; Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Rose; Dier, Wanyama; Lamela, Alli, Eriksen; Kane
Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1)
Hennessey; Ward, Dann, Delaney, Souare; Cabaye, Ledley; Zaha, Puncheon, Townsend; Wickham
Key battles
- Harry Kane V Scott Dann
- Eric Dier V Yohan Cabaye
- Toby Alderweireld V Connor Wickham
Prediction
Premier League is possibly the most unpredictable football league in the world. You can never write anyone off. On paper, Crystal Palace look a weak considering the quality in Spurs’ side but games are not won on paper. It will be a tight affair. Spurs looked far from their best against Everton and might find it hard to score goals. We are predicting a 0-0 scoreline.
