Tottenham Hotspur will look to bounce back from their loss against Liverpool as they embark on their Europa League campaign. The Lilywhites dropped down from the Champions League after exiting at the Group Stages. After an excellent start to the year and being the standout Premier League team, the loss against the Reds came as a surprise and a setback as they lost their 2nd spot to Manchester City and now need to focus on reclaiming that place so that they can continue on their quest to keep the pressure on Chelsea, in a desperate measure so as not to repeat last year’s pattern of results.
Pochettino was critical of his side’s desire during the weekend’s defeat at Liverpool but is not expected to make widespread changes. Jan Vertonghen, Danny Rose and Erik Lamela are all sidelined. Georges-Kevin Nkoudou is also a doubt.
Spurs are heavily backed for a win but their inconsistent nature in Europe might prove to be a stumbling block in their quest for a prolonged run there. But with the intense competition for a place in the Top 4 in the League, teams like Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur might put added emphasis on the next best route to get into the Champions League- the Europa League.
PREDICTED TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR LINE-UP VS GENT (4-2-3-1)
DEFENCE
Michel Vorm will hope to get a look in but there is a chance that Pochettino might go with Lloris between the sticks. The choice will give more clarity in his priorities. Trippier is likely to come in for Walker with the English International needed a much-deserved rest. Eric Dier and Alderweireld are likely to continue at centre-back and need to step up their display from the horror show at Anfield. Davies will be at left-back.
MIDFIELD
Wanyama and Dembele have been excellent in the centre of the park and have orchestrated the play from the deep areas and there will be the desire to continue with them and go for the kill but there is a possibility that Winks might be employed from the start with the youngster impressing in the chances he has got. We could see Winks and Wanyama in midfield. Dele Alli is likely to carry on in the No.10 role behind the striker.
ATTACK
Eriksen is likely to retain his left-flank role and will be asked to provide the creativity for the more direct players. Sissoko is likely to get a game on the right-wing with Harry Kane leading the line.
