Following a narrow 2-1 win over Lokomotiv Plovdiv in the qualifying stages of the UEFA Europa League, Tottenham Hotspur will be hoping to secure their first Premier League win of the season when they take on Southampton on Sunday. The Lilywhites lost their opening match to Everton, with Jose Mourinho citing a lack of fitness to be the main reason behind that defeat.
Predicted Tottenham Hotspur Vs Southampton
Defence
Toby Alderweireld was left behind in London for their trip to Bulgaria, so the Belgian international is a surefire starter in the Tottenham backline this weekend.
Last time out, Alderweireld partnered Eric Dier in central defence, but the latter could make way for Davinson Sanchez this weekend while the other option Japhet Tanganga is facing fitness problems.
Matt Doherty is set to retain his place at right-back despite starting for Tottenham in the last two matches. There could be a bit of excitement on the opposite flank, with Tottenham poised to complete a deal to sign Sergio Reguilon.
However, the Spaniard is unlikely to feature even if he does join Spurs tomorrow, meaning Ben Davies will get the nod, along with Hugo Lloris, who will start in goal despite featuring ahead of Joe Hart against Plovdiv.
Midfield
Speaking of Lokomotiv Plovdiv, Tanguy Ndombele came from the bench to score the late winner in that game. The Frenchman might get the nod ahead of Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks against Southampton this weekend due to the fact that he can ease Tottenham’s transition with his immaculate ball retention and a brilliant range of passing.
He should combine well with the more combative midfielder in Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. The Dane is more than expected to start ahead of Sissoko due to his overall quality as well as a phenomenal work-rate.
Attack
Fans are excited about the potential arrival of Gareth Bale this week. According to various rumours, the Real Madrid star is set to rejoin Tottenham on loan, which would become one of the most eye-catching transfers in this summer window. Nevertheless, Bale is unlikely to feature against Southampton, which is incidentally, his boyhood club.
Harry Kane is the only option in the number nine role and should once again spearhead the Tottenham attack, partnered by the wide offensive duo of Lucas Moura and Son Heung-Min.
Dele Alli was left behind for the trip to Bulgaria so the English international might once again operate in the number ten, though this time around, fit-again Giovani Lo Celso is pushing for a start.
