Tottenham Hotspur will face yet another stern test in the Premier League as they lock horns with league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. The Lilywhites have had an uneventful start to their campaign. But, a win against the Reds could go a long way in resurrecting their dire season, especially having already secured a 5-0 win over Crvena Zvezda in the Champions League in midweek.
Here is how Mauricio Pochettino’s men may line up against the title contenders this weekend.
Formation: 4-3-3
Defence
Fortunately for Pochettino, Hugo Lloris is the only confirmed absentee for Spurs heading into this game. While that does mean Paulo Gazzaniga will once again retain his place in between the sticks, the Argentine will have an array of options to choose from in the defensive department.
Juan Foyth appeared in his first game of the season against Crvena. But, he is unlikely to get the nod ahead of Serge Aurier at right-back. The Ivorian, however, will need to remain sharp as he will be dealing with Sadio Mane.
As for Ben Davies, he will likely be replaced by Danny Rose on the opposite flank. Both these fullbacks will brace themselves for a busy afternoon dealing with the Liverpool attackers.
Both Foyth and Davinson Sanchez are in contention to start in central defence this weekend. But given the quality of the opponent, Pochettino is expected to persist with the experienced duo of Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen.
Midfield
Harry Winks will be returning to the side after being rested in midweek. He will occupy the holding midfield role, though he will mainly operate as a deep-lying playmaker. But, things could take a different shape against Liverpool.
Winks will be partnered by Moussa Sissoko and Tanguy Ndombele in central midfield. Both these players started in midweek and this weekend’s clash against Liverpool will challenge their fitness levels. It will be interesting to see how Ndombele fares against Fabinho.
Attack
We may once again see no Christian Eriksen in the starting lineup. And given it’s a 4-3-3, it won’t be surprising to see both Erik Lamela and Heung-Min Son retain their place in the wide attacking roles. Lamela, in particular, was one of the most impressive performers against Crvena Zvezda and his work-rate could be critical for Spurs’ first line of press.
And finally, the Tottenham attack will be led by none other than Harry Kane. The English international is coming on the back of a brace in midweek and fans will hope that he would be able to make a huge difference in this daunting task of facing Liverpool.
