Tottenham Projected XI for Midweek Must Win versus Chelsea

2 of 5

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Jose Mourinho, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur speaks with Serge Aurier of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on October 04, 2020 in Manchester, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

Tottenham Defense

The defense is going to be reverted back to a back four, with Serge Aurier reinstated as the right back. Additionally, we see Eric Dier return to the line-up as the leadership he brings is more important that the qualities he may lack. Ultimately, more than who is in the back is how the back is played. The more conservative a role the fullbacks play the better Spurs are defensively.

Serge Aurier (RB)

Until a recognized right back can be brought in to the squad Serge Aurier is the best right back Tottenham have. Whatever happened or did not happen at halftime against Liverpool it is time to move on. Aurier has been mostly consistent on the season and offers the most of any player in the position in terms of both offense and defense.

Joe Rodon (CB)

Win, lose, or draw, José Mourinho is tied to Joe Rodon as he was the back that was brought in under his watch. Rodon has played mostly well overall and really is potentially the total package defensively. The young man is simply lacking in experience, no better way to get that experience than playing regularly and he gets another shot here.

Eric Dier (CB)

Eric Dier has limitations as a defender but he works to overcome those as an all around footballer. The mistakes we have seen from Dier come from lapses in concentration, which likely come from being overworked. After a match off to rest and watch, Dier should be ready and Spurs will need his leadership against a very active and heavy movement Chelsea team.

Ben Davies (LB)

With Sergio Reguilón out Spurs have very few other choices at left back. While we went through those choices not so long ago as it seemed Davies was potentially injured, the Welshman played. Ben Davies probably could use more rest than he is getting, but it is what it is at the moment until Sergio can get healthy.