Tottenham have their work cut out for them as they travel to Manchester to face league leaders City, the in-form team on the continent.
City have won 10 straight Premier League contests, amassing a five point lead atop the table. Spurs are capable of beating anyone on any given day, but will need to execute their game plan immaculately to have any chance of ending City’s winning run. And that includes committing absolutely no personal blunders.
Below is the starting 11 Jose Mourinho should employ against Pep Guardiola’s seemingly indomitable side.
Tottenham’s starting lineup
Defence:
Serge Aurier’s inclusion is doubtful after suffering a calf injury in the victory against West Brom. His counterpart, Sergio Reguilón, is definitely out as he nurses a muscle injury. He should return in the next few weeks.
Hugo Lloris, with Joe Hart playing the role of understudy, has no chance of losing his starting spot. But considering the quantity and manner of his past egregious errors, one would at least hope a shadow of doubt is cast on his long-term future at the club.
At this point, we might be better off deciding who starts at centre back with a coin toss. Davinson Sanchez should rest after playing midweek against Everton. Even if the Columbian is good to go, his performance on Wednesday didn’t exactly instil the utmost confidence, which is saying a lot considering his two-goal contribution. He was out of sorts defensively and should make way for Eric Dier, who has also struggled mightily. Dier is completely devoid of confidence, so his inclusion is also a risky move for the gaffer.
But it would be unfair to ask Joe Rodon to start against one of the world’s most dynamic, crafty, speedy and threatening attacks. Toby, another of Spurs’ struggling centre backs, is the most experienced of the lot, and should retain his spot in the middle of a shaky, unsure rearguard.
Midfield
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, who endured his worst performance of the campaign in the midweek defeat to the Toffees, will certainly take his rightful spot in the heart of the park. The Dane, aside from Wednesday’s series of unfortunate events, is one of Tottenham’s most consistent players, and is an integral part of the away side’s personnel.
Without Højbjerg in the starting team, Spurs have little chance of overcoming the monumental task that awaits. Tanguy Ndombele should partner the Dane deep in midfield. The Frenchman is another crucial element of Jose’s starting team. While I prefer him in a more advanced role, it’s clear that Tanguy is an irreplaceable asset in midfield. He can drive forward, ping an incisive pass and turn on a dime. He and Højbjerg are usually stable and reliable forces, both of whom are guaranteed starters.
Son Heung-MIn is a staple in the side, another player whose name is etched in stone on the team sheet. His counterpart should be Steven Bergwijn, who impressed in previous outings against City. The Dutchman scored on his debut last season against Pep’s side. Aside from that beautiful moment, Bergwijn has contributed significantly to the cause against City, including in the 2-0 win earlier this season. Lucas Moura is in contention for the role, but the Dutchman is certainly favoured to get the nod.
Forwards
Erik Lamela is one of Tottenham’s best players of late. His goal against Everton reinforced how dangerous he’s been since returning to the first team after a recent injury layoff. The Argentinian combines well with Son and, to some extent, Bergwijn. He loves playing in a more advanced role, which comes with the bonus of a diminished defensive responsibility.
We all know who is starting as the lone front man. Harry Kane will have to be at his indomitable best for Spurs to steal this one. And I have a feeling we’re in store for something special at the Etihad on Saturday.