Projected XI for Tottenham Hotspur as Spurs host Norwich

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BURNLEY, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Emerson Royal of Tottenham Hotspur holds off a challenge from Dwight McNeil of Burnley during the Carabao Cup Round of 16 match between Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur at Turf Moor on October 27, 2021, in Burnley, England. (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images) /

Tottenham projected midfield starters

After breaking up the band due to Oliver Skipp‘s suspension and then rotating some against Mura, both the canceled Burnley match, as well as the actual Brentford game, featured the same four in the midfield Conte has used in every Premier League match they were all available for.

Left-wingback – Sergio Reguilón

After scoring against Leeds United, Sergio Reguilón again had a big day against Brentford. An absolute beast on the left, he, Son, and Ben Davies provided more push than the Bees could handle. Reguilón’s assist to Son for Spurs second was a thing of beauty and no less than either deserved. Sunday we will see if Reguilón can continue to grow in Conte’s free-flowing system.

Central midfield – Pierre-Emile Højbjerg

In the match against Brentford it seemed Pierre Højbjerg was more the holding midfielder while his fellow central midfielder Oliver Skipp pushed further up the pitch. Højbjerg had his moments in the attacking third and likely would center his side netting shot to Son if given a second chance. Playing a less expansive role does suit Højbjerg best and he was strong against Brentford.

Central midfield – Oliver Skipp

Only sitting out the one required league match from his suspension due to yellow card accumulation, Olive Skipp was very good against Brentford. Progressive with his passing, Skipp had a couple of key passes which set up shooting opportunities. HIs pass between the lines and through to Kane was a great example of the kind of eye for the pass Skipp has. All this with a relentless motor.

Right-wingback – Emerson Royal

Sometimes you see Emerson Royal and he simply does not look the part, lengthy but muscular, quick but he runs a bit flat-footed. None of that really matters as Royal’s skillset and comfort on the ball make him an excellent fit for Conte’s system, like Reguilón on the other side. If there is a clear weakness for Emerson it is his crossing, which he should have ample opportunity to work on against a susceptible Canary defence.