Tottenham Hotspur had a long week to endure after the sudden loss to West Ham United last week. The loss not only ended the slim chance of a shot at the league title, which was blossoming at White Hart Lane, but it also killed the optimism that had reach its peak when they defeated Arsenal in the last North-London derby there.
However, as they say in Premier League a club is as good as their last result and Pochettino would want his men to overcome a tricky Manchester United challenge this weekend. And given their phenomenal form at home, where they are unbeaten this season so far, a positive result against United could make the club unbeaten at home for the first time at home since the 1964-65 season.
Spurs have a mixed record against United. While they have a perennially bad record against them with the Lilywhites losing 77 times so far, Jose Mourinho hasn’t liked playing at White Hart Lane. The Portuguese international has failed to win a single game in his last four visits there.
To top that, United are experiencing a terrible season in the league this term and a loss here means any chance of qualifying for the Champions League would solely happen if they win the Europa League.
Possible Tottenham Hotspur XI vs Manchester United
Defence
Hugo Lloris will take his position under the bar. The Frenchman has played a significant role in Spurs’ outstanding defensive record.
We expect Pochettino to go with a back-four with the likes of Martial, Rashford and Lingard would be ready exploit the wide acres of space while United counters. The defensive flanks will be taken by Ben Davies and Kyle Walker. Lack of first-team action of latter has linked Walker with a move away from Spurs and United have been a potential suitor.
The centre-halves would be the ever-reliable duo of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld. Their disciplined defending and intelligent game reading has stopped the best of attacks this season.
Midfield
The two central midfielders guarding the back line would be Victor Wanyama and Eric Dier. Dier’s defensive attributes have made him one of the most essential players for Pochettino, who paves the way for Walker when Spurs press higher. Same goes for Wanyama, though Davies is half as lethal as Danny Rose.
The number 10 role will be taken by Dele Alli. The enigmatic forward has scored 17 goals and assisted seven times so far.
Attack
The flanks will be taken by Christian Eriksen and Heung-Min Son. The attacking midfielders have been the catalyst to Spurs’ attacking prowess. Harry Kane will spearhead the attack.
