Mauricio Pochettino’s Spurs will travel to the Hawthorns on Saturday to take on Tony Pulis’ West Bromwich Albion, in the quest for their first victory over the Magpies in their last four attempts. West Brom have always proved to be a tricky opponent for the Lilywhites. The North London giants hold a poor record away from home against the Midlands side, losing 34 games while winning just 17. However, with the kind of form they are in from the start of the season, they should be able to brush aside the Magpies.
Spurs are the only Premier League side still unbeaten after seven game weeks. Pochettino’s boys are sitting second on the table right now with 17 points from seven games, just one place and one point behind league leaders Manchester City.
The Lilywhites are on the back of an impressive 2-0 win against Manchester City, prior to the international break, and look like potential title challengers. However, they must win these games in order to keep their push for the title.
Here is the predicted Spurs lineup against West Brom.
Defence
Skipper Hugo Lloris is the obvious choice in goal ahead of Michel Vorm. We can expect an unchanged back four from Pochettino. Kyle Walker has been phenomenal for Spurs in the right-back position especially with his attacking forays and he is expected to keep his place.
Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld are arguably the best centre-back pairing in the Premier League right now and will keep their places at the heart of the defence. Danny Rose is is expected to slot into the left-back position.
Midfield
Eric Dier could come back into midfield, which would be likely to see Spurs revert away from the 4-1-4-1 formation that has worked well in recent weeks. The Englishman is likely to be partnered by Victor Wanyama in the double pivot as Mousa Dembele is doubtful with an injury.
Dele Alli has picked up his game lately and was instrumental for Spurs in their 2-0 win over Manchester City prior to the international break. The Englishman will keep his place in the number ten role.
Christian Eriksen should keep his place on the left flank. Erik Lamela has travelled plenty of air miles during the international break and Pochettino is unlikely to give him a start. Moussa Sissoko, therefore, should keep his place on the right flank.
Attack
Heung-min Son is expected to lead the line ahead of Vincent Janssen, despite the Dutch striker finding his scoring boots while on international duty.
