Spurs’ hopes for qualifying for the round of 16 of the champions League was destroyed after a loss against Monaco in the previous match day. Mauricio Pochettino’s side still have Europa League football to play for when they host AS Monaco in the final match of the group stage.
Spurs had won just one of their last ten games in all competitions before their 5-0 win against Swansea City on Saturday. The Lilywhites were sublime against the Swans and showed no mercy against the Welsh side.
UEFA’s new rule sees the Europa League winners automatically qualify for the Champions League which has added a real incentive to go all the way in the competition. Even a draw will take Spurs to the Europa League. Pochettino is expected to field a weakened team given his side are already out of the Champions League. Should they secure the point needed to progress to the Europa League, it will present opportunities for the Argentine to use youngsters with the first-team focus on the upcoming League game against Manchester United.
The reverse fixture ended in a 1-0 win for the North London side. Here is the predicted Spurs lineup against CSKA Moscow.
Defence
Skipper Hugo Lloris is likely to start under the bar ahead of Michel Vorm. Second-choice right-back Kieran Trippier is likely to get a start at right-back. Youngster Cameron Carter-Vickers could get a start at the heart of the defence alongside Austrian international Kevin Wimmer. With Ben Davies injured, Pochettino has no option but to play Danny Rose at left-back.
Midfield
Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele are both likely to get rested against CSKA Moscow. Eric Dier started at centre-back on Saturday against Swansea City and is likely to shift to his favoured defensive midfield role.
Spurs’ mega-money summer signing Moussa Sissoko has struggled for opportunities since he moved to Spurs from Newcastle. More importantly, he has rarely started centrally which is the best position and where he starred in the Euros. The French international will get his chance in central midfield against CSKA Moscow. Youngster Harry Winks is likely to start in the number ten role.
Attack
Youngster Josh Onomah is likely to start on the right flank. Summer signing from Marseille Georges-Kevin N’Koudou could get the nod on the left flank. Harry Kane scored a brace on Saturday against Swansea and will be looking to add to his tally against CSKA Moscow.
