Tottenham Hotspur will be aiming to capitalise on their 2-1 win over Norwich City when they travel to St. Mary’s Stadium to face Southampton in the 4th round of the FA Cup. The Lilywhites will be looking to avoid having to compete in the replay as they did in the earlier round against Middlesbrough.
Here is how Jose Mourinho’s men could line up against the Saints this weekend.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Tottenham Hotspur Lineup Vs Southampton
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Mourinho is likely to retain the 4-2-3-1 shape that he used in the win over Norwich City. But, there could be a couple of changes, with Japhet Tanganga, in particular, likely to replace Serge Aurier at right-back. This could be an excellent opportunity for the youngster to make an impression. Ryan Sessegnon, meanwhile, could retain his place in the starting lineup, especially with Ben Davies out injured while Danny Rose was reportedly involved in a clash with Mourinho.
In central defence, Davinson Sanchez could return to the side, at the expense of Jan Vertonghen, who is likely to receive a breather. The Colombian is set to partner Toby Alderweireld at the heart of the four-man backline.
Hugo Lloris, on the other hand, made his much-awaited return in the win over Norwich. The Frenchman is tipped to retain his place in goal, ahead of Paulo Gazzaniga.
Midfield
Gedson Fernandes is poised to make his starting debut for Tottenham Hotspur, after initially joining the club in an 18-month loan deal from SL Benfica. The Portuguese could replace Harry Winks in the holding midfield role.
Eric Dier, meanwhile, might receive a rare start. His physicality could be important in dealing with Southampton’s high press. He could partner Fernandes in the double-pivot. Tanguy Ndombele is an option, but he is unlikely to be risked by Mourinho.
Attack
Dier’s inclusion in the side could allow Giovani Lo Celso to feature in a wider attacking role, preferably on the left where he could replace Son Heung-Min. The South Korean international should receive a breather after a strenuous midweek fixture.
Erik Lamela, however, could retain his role on the opposite flank as he looks to continue his excellent run of form. As for Dele Alli, he is once again expected to get the nod ahead of Christian Eriksen in the number ten slot. And finally, the Tottenham attack could be led by Lucas Moura, deputising for the injured Harry Kane in the number nine role.
