Tottenham: What to expect and how Spurs can beat West Ham United

Whose midfield combo wins the day?

This match is going to feature four talented eights, three of which are starters for their country – with Skipp still representing the England U-21 team. Ultimately, which duo plays better – Skipp and Hojbjerg or Soucek and Rice – is likely going to go a long way toward determining the winner.

Soucek and Rice are probably a bit more polished going forward and both are serious threats to score in the air, particularly on set-pieces where West Ham are especially effective. However, Skipp and Hojbjerg likely have the edge defensively.

Rice in particular can be beaten with quickness in and around the box. If Tottenham can isolate Rice with one of Spurs wide attackers like Heung-Min Son,  Lucas Moura, Steven Bergwijn, or even Bryan Gil, Rice can be beaten and Spurs can get some service. Of course to beat Rice like that you have to slowly push the Hammers deep and then work to move the ball quickly to create the isolation that can make the difference.

The Hammers never quit Spurs better be ready

One of the biggest issues with Spurs this season has been the inability to match the intensity and effort of the opposition. One thing we know West Ham is going to bring, especially at home, is effort and energy.

West Ham never quits. We all remember the comeback from last season. This season already the Hammers have come from behind to win, twice. While Tottenham is not the same team as last season and seems a bit more equipped to hold a lead, West Ham is not going to stop until the final whistle so one goal is not likely going to hold them.

Expect at least three goals but probably more

While Spurs have struggled to score this season, the Hammers have not, nor have they been great at keeping clean sheets. Particularly at home, where West Ham has not yet kept a clean sheet, the Hammers have been conceding, giving up 7 goals in four matches at Olympic Stadium.

Coming off their highest-scoring game of the season, on the road, with three at Newcastle, maybe Tottenham has found its stride. Add in the freshness the first team players should feel and this game is not likely to end up 1-0. Instead, it will be the first team to three that is most likely to win.