Tottenham Hotspur projected 11 for contest against Wolves at home

Defence

Conte confirmed Eric Dier‘s unavailability for Sunday’s contest, a massive blow considering how shaky Tottenham’s defence was in Wednesday’s loss. The Englishman should return to the lineup when Spurs travel to Manchester City next Saturday, on Feb. 19.

Which leaves Conte devoid of choices in the three-man rearguard. He will start with the same trio he has for the last two matches, including Davinson Sanchez, Cristian Romero and Ben Davies.

The Colombian endured an erratic outing against Southampton, a type of performance that is creeping back into his repertoire recently, most notably in Dier’s absence. Davies also had an off game, costing his side one goal on a slip-turned-scuffed clearance. Though you’d expect both to be much better in a chance to redeem themselves.

Romero, who has played two in a row since returning from a long injury layoff, needs to start taking more of a leadership presence and be the guiding light for colleagues either side of him. The Argentinian upping the ante is even more important with Dier on the treatment table.

Midfield

The midfield is where we’ll see Conte make some changes, especially after Pierre Hojbjerg and Harry Winks were dominated against a perceived lesser team. I’d be flabbergasted if Rodrigo Bentancur, who has enjoyed successive excellent cameos since joining from Juventus, doesn’t earn his first Tottenham start.

Spurs need a shakeup in the centre of the park and without Oliver Skipp, who suffered a recent setback on his road to recovery, Bentancur is the option begging to be chosen. Supporters want it and I’d imagine Conte, after seeing the Uruguayan step seamlessly into English football, albeit fleetingly thus far, also knows it’s time.

Winks and Hojbjerg were both subpar, but it is the former who will miss out. Pierre was withdrawn early against the Saints, giving him more rest. Though obviously withdrawn for his ineffectiveness, the Dane will be given a redemptive opportunity.

On the wings, Sergio Reguilon, one of Tottenham’s bright lights against the Saints, will retain his spot, while Emerson Royal cedes his role to Matthew Doherty. Royal, who was at least partially culpable for two of three Southampton goals, was woeful for large chunks of Wednesday’s loss and needs the afternoon off.