Tottenham Hotspur projected XI to face Wolves in the Premier League
By Aaron Coe
Tottenham Defense
It was in the Tottenham defense where most people were expecting the most changes. However, as we move into the second league game of the season, it would appear that at least three of the starters are the same as last season and the fourth is an academy product. While this does not seem like it would be the formula for success, Nuno and Spurs may be finding it.
Left fullback: Sergio Reguilón
Left-back Sergio Reguilón did not seem to spend nearly as much time defending against Manchester City as did his opposite Japhet Tanganga on Spurs right. However, the reality is that Reguilón had a big job keeping tabs on Riyad Mahrez. For what was not the first time Reguilón was able to keep Mahrez mostly under wraps. As teams continue to try to attack the younger Tanganga, Reguilón has to look to push the attack up the Spurs left.
Center-half: Eric Dier
After a summer where most – this author included – were hoping to see Eric Dier replaced, the Englishman had a solid opener against City. Less stretched with Reguilón mostly in place, Dier did a good job blocking shots and cutting crosses like he is supposed to do. If the Tottenham midfielders can help keep the game in front of him, Dier can be effective. Of course, Adama Traore presents a different challenge with his physicality than did City with their finesse.
Center-half: Davinson Sanchez
Some may want to see Cristian Romero start this match but the reality is Romero was struggling at the end of 90 minutes on Thursday and coming off an injury is not fit enough to go again this soon. Beyond Romero’s availability to go 90 minutes, Davinson Sanchez was fantastic for Tottenham in the opener. Sanchez was a perfect four-for-four on his tackles including a big one on Kevin De Bruyne late in the match. Sanchez has shown he is a capable defender and we saw that last week, which Tottenham needs to continue.
Righ fullback: Japhet Tanganga
The idea that Tottenham was looking for a new right-back most of the summer and the one he needed was right here all along is really great. However, Tanganga has not proven he can stay healthy for extended stretches. After a terrific opening match, staying healthy and on the field is one of the main priorities for Tanganga. The team clearly benefited from his physicality and he is better on the ball than most would think. Maybe we even get to see his long thrown-in at some point near the goal. Tanganga can bring a lot, let’s hope he stays fit.
Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
There may come a time this season when Pierluigi Gollini takes over as the starter for Tottenham, however, that time is not yet. Hugo Lloris has to be feeling good and confident after starting the season with a shutout of Manchester City. Lloris was a bit sketchy early in the match as he was trying to control his box. However, as he and the game settled, he grew back into his normal shot-stopping self. Sunday, Tottenham should not need a lot of saves but they likely will need Hugo to make at least one big one.