Tottenham Hotspur Projected XI for Fulham Rematch in EPL
By Aaron Coe
Tottenham Midfield Starters
José Mourinho continues to use his normal two holding midfielders and one attacking midfielder approach. The big difference in this particular line-up is who is playing in the attacking position. The last time Spurs played Fulham it was Ndombele, Winks, and Højbjerg. While we can expect two of those players to go, only one is even in the same position, such is the changing dynamic of the Tottenham midfield, which finally gives us the full front four we are looking for.
Dele Alli – Center-Attacking Midfield
Dele Alli came on after the game was in hand on the weekend against Burnley. Lucas Moura had provided the kind of energy and effort that Mourinho was looking for on the day and it paid off. Dele did okay when he came on and helped hold onto the shutout and win. Given the midweek game, the performance last week, and the patience he has shown, Dele finally gets a chance to start against Fulham. Do not expect 90, but a solid 60-65 from Dele in the number 10 role would be good for him and the club.
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg – Holding Midfield
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg sat out most of last week’s match and it certainly helped him on the weekend. That said, the young man only needs so much rest and after several days off should be ready to go. With the attacking nous Tottenham has on the pitch, it should mean the Dane can hold back and stay in the position with the ball and game in front of him. When Højbjerg is moving forward toward the ball and attacking as opposed to backing-up is when he is at his best for Spurs.
Tanguy Ndombele – Holding Midfield
It has taken some time, patience, and resolve from both Tanguy Ndombele and José Mourinho, but it seems Ndombele is that partner for Pierre that Spurs needed. Having someone as capable and creative as Ndombele that deep really allows the three attackers and the attacking midfield to commit more to the attack. Tanguy has been growing in his link-up play and is underrated as a defender.