Tottenham projected starting 11 for Carabao Cup match vs West Ham
By Gary Pearson
Projected starting 11 for West Ham encounter
Defence
Pierluigi Gollini carries on with what he started. The Italian is Tottenham’s go-to keeper for Carabao Cup action and that is unlikely to change, regardless of how advanced the competition.
Ben Davies and Eric Dier are too influential to replace and remain in the starting team, while Joe Rodon gets another opportunity after struggling against Mura in the Europa Conference League a few weeks ago.
It’s a contest calling out for Rodon to start. The Welshman will be pitted against Michail Antonio, if he plays, whose physical prowess will provide a good litmus test for 24-year-old. Cristian Romero is out until the end of January, possibly February, with a hamstring injury.
Midfield
The status of Pierre Hojbjerg is still unknown, so it’s unlikely the Dane will be ready to crack Conte’s starting 11. However, Oliver Skipp entered the scene off the bench against Liverpool and will be ready to rejoin the first team. Harry Winks gets the nod on only three days rest. He enjoyed a resurgent, man-of-the-match performance against Liverpool, and Conte will be keen to see whether Winks can string impressive back-to-back performances together on minimal rest.
There is a chance Giovani Lo Celso will start in a deeper role, though he’d be better suited, especially after returning form an injury layoff, to play in a more free, advanced position. Japhet Tanganga and Sergio Reguilon come back into the starting 11, with the Spaniard ready to test his thigh after over two weeks’ rest. Tanganga will be preferred to Matt Doherty and will want to make up for a relatively disappointing performance against Norwich last time out.
Forwards
Lucas Moura came on for a brief cameo appearance against Liverpool. The Brazilian will be raring to go and should start as one part of Tottenham’s front three. Harry Kane looks fit and in the mood for goals. This match is an excellent chance for Spurs’ talisman to score in successive contests, helping him regain his prolific form from last season.
Lo Celso rounds out the front three. It’s very unlikely Conte will opt for Steven Bergwijn, who hasn’t gotten a sniff since the Italian gaffer’s arrival. Dele Alli and Son Heung-min will make the most of the rest, though either should be ready for their numbers to be called off the bench.
Next. Dele Alli resembled player of old in resurgent performance against Reds. dark
Who do you think Conte should start for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarterfinal?