Tottenham Hotspur projected XI for Carabao Cup semi-final at Chelsea

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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 05: Oliver Skipp of Tottenham Hotspur holds off the challenge from Billy Gilmour of Norwich City during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 5, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images) /

Tottenham projected midfield

One area where change is possible is in the midfield as Conte could opt for a five-man midfield instead of the four-man midfield we have seen most often under the Italian gaffer. We think he will stick with four but if Winks is on the teamsheet instead of Skipp, then expect to see five across the middle instead.

Left wing-back – Sergio Reguilon

With Ryan Sessegnon still out injured, it seems like Sergio Reguilon is the only real option at the wing-back position. We have seen Matt Doherty on the left some but he never really looks comfortable and is too predictable cutting back on his right foot. Reguilon has looked good at times in Conte’s system but still has not grabbed the position and made it his own.

Central midfield – Pierre Hojbjerg

Sometimes the combination of Oliver Skipp and Pierre Hojbjerg just seems too darn conservative for what we want to see from this team. However, the defensive stability provided by the Hojbjerg/Skipp double pivot is unquestionable. Additionally, we have seen Hojbjerg do more in the final third this season, showing he is more than just a holding midfielder. Against Chelsea, Spurs will need more.

Central midfield – Oliver Skipp

Oliver Skipp is a player who seems to add a bit to his game with each outing. The all-out effort that Skipp provides, particularly protecting the backline, has been a big part of Spurs success under Conte. While we all want to see Skipp more progressive with the ball, he is rarely wasteful. Keeping the backline protected against Chelsea is going to be difficult and Skipp will be busy all day.

Right wing-back – Emerson Royal

After a difficult time providing the kind of service strikers need against Watford, a number of people seem down on Emerson Royal. However, we looked at the possibility of upgrading from Royal, and it is not something that can easily be done. For being just 22, in his first season in England, playing a new position Royal is doing well. Do not get it twisted he will be great in the near future and will continue to get his chances to prove it.

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