Following a shock exit from the UEFA Europa League in midweek, Tottenham Hotspur look to move on as they lock horns with Aston Villa on Sunday. Jose Mourinho is currently under severe pressure following the club’s elimination from the FA Cup and Europa League. However, the Lilywhites are still in top-four contention despite the recent defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League.
Predicted Tottenham Hotspur Lineup Vs Aston Villa
Defence
Following a defensive disaster against Dinamo Zagreb, Mourinho is well within his rights to ring in the changes in the four-man backline this weekend. Serge Aurier, in particular, is likely to be dumped in favour of Matt Doherty while the equally attack-minded Sergio Reguilon should replace Ben Davies – providing more width in the Tottenham attack.
In central defence, Davinson Sanchez and Eric Dier are both likely to make way for Joe Rodon and Toby Alderweireld, in what will be a completely changed Spurs backline. It will be a chance for Rodon to redeem himself after a slow start to his career in north London.’
Nevertheless, so many changes mean captain Hugo Lloris remains the only player likely to retain his place in the side, with the Frenchman hoping to earn a rare clean sheet.
Midfield
It appears Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg should return in contention after missing an important game against Dinamo Zagreb in midweek. His presence in midfield serves as a boon for Mourinho, whose team lacked control and dominance in the middle of the park versus the Croats.
The Dane should renew his midfield partnership with Tanguy Ndombele, at the base of Tottenham’s 4-2-3-1, at the expense of Harry Winks and Moussa Sissoko this weekend.
Elsewhere, Giovani Lo Celso has now returned to full fitness, notably featuring as a substitute against Dinamo. The Argentine is, in fact, a favourite to start in the number ten role, ahead of Dele Alli this weekend.
Attack
Son Heung-Min, unfortunately, is unlikely to feature on Sunday due to a knock he picked up in the north London derby. In addition, Tottenham are missing Erik Lamela, who picked up two yellow cards against Arsenal, thus paving the way for Lucas Moura to retain his place in the starting eleven.
The Brazilian should operate out wide alongside Gareth Bale while Lo Celso features in the number ten – providing the supply for the lone striker Harry Kane. These four players certainly need to click if Tottenham are to have any hopes of sealing all three points in this tricky affair.
