Tottenham Hotspur will brace themselves for one of their toughest tests in this calendar year when they lock horns with Manchester City on Sunday. The Lilywhites haven’t had a bright start to the second half of the campaign, securing just one win in the Premier League. But, a victory against the Citizens could help them regain some confidence.
Here is how Spurs could line up against Pep Guardiola’s men this weekend.
Predicted 4-3-3 Tottenham Hotspur Lineup Vs Manchester City
Formation: 4-3-3
Defence
Serge Aurier is guaranteed to retain his place at right-back, where he will play a crucial role in dealing with the attacking threat of Raheem Sterling. The Ivorian needs to improve his defensive game, however.
On the opposite flank, meanwhile, Japhet Tanganga seems like a definite starter, especially with Danny Rose moving to Newcastle United on loan. Ben Davies is also injured, meaning the youngster could be given an excellent opportunity to prove his credentials against a top side this weekend.
There could be one change in central defence, with Jan Vertonghen returning at the expense of Davinson Sanchez. The Belgian veteran will be partnered by his compatriot Toby Alderweireld, at the heart of Spurs’ four-man backline.
And in goal, Hugo Lloris will continue to get the nod ahead of Paulo Gazzaniga after struggling with an injury for the majority of this campaign.
Midfield
New signing Gedson Fernandes has endured a pretty average start to his Premier League career, and it won’t be surprising if the young Portuguese returns to the bench this weekend. It could pave the way for Harry Winks to operate in the holding midfield slot, though he will be partnered by the duo of Tanguy Ndombele and Dele Alli.
Both these midfielders will operate in a slightly advanced role, though Ndombele could be asked to drop deep and influence the build-up play.
Attack
Giovani Lo Celso is arguably the most in-form player for Tottenham at the moment. The club has even made the Argentine’s move permanent this month, and it will be interesting to see whether or not he can fill in the shoes of Christian Eriksen. In this fixture, he is expected to operate at right-wing.
Lucas Moura is likely to retain his place in the false number nine slot while the same can be said for Son Heung-Min, though both the players need to improve in terms of their attacking productivity.
Meanwhile, new signing Steven Bergwijn could be in contention to feature against the Citizens this weekend. We do expect Jose Mourinho to utilise his qualities later in the game.
