Tottenham Hotspur projected XI to face Middlesbrough in FA Cup

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Tottenham Hotspur’s Welsh defender Ben Davies (L) vies with Leeds United’s Brazilian midfielder Raphinha Dias Belloli during the English Premier League football match between Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road in Leeds, northern England on February 26, 2022. (Photo by JON SUPER/AFP via Getty Images) /

Tottenham Projected Defence

Conte continues to stick with the defence that makes him the most comfortable as Spurs hit the road to Middlesbrough.

Left-back – Ben Davies

Against Leeds, there is no doubt that Ben Davies made the defensive play of the game for Tottenham. His effort to get back and block Stuart Dallas to help preserve the shutout was commendable. Davies could use some rest, but Davies can go once more with Spurs off until next Monday.

Centre-back – Eric Dier

The defensive mistakes for Spurs have been going down, and much of that is to Eric Dier. Steady in the middle of the park, Dier helps keep everyone together and organized in the back.

Right-back – Cristian Romero

Maybe Davinson Sanchez gets the nod, but Conte likely wants to build continuity and keep Cristian Romero in the line-up. Romero has been excellent defensively over the last few weeks and cuts out the mistakes against Leeds. Ultra-aggressive, Romero brings something different to the team with that desire to win the ball back.

Goalkeeper – Pierluigi Gollini

The Italian goalkeeper does not get many chances with Hugo Lloris handling the goal for Spurs. Still, Tuesday represents an excellent opportunity for Gollini to play for the first time in a while.