Projected XI for Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton in the Premier League

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LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Hugo Lloris of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road on February 26, 2022 in Leeds, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images) /

After five full days without a game following their FA Cup exit, Tottenham Hotspur hosts Everton in the Premier League; here are the XI Spurs who will start.

Although Spurs are coming off a disappointing FA Cup loss to Middlesbrough, Tottenham did win their last Premier League outing – a convincing 4-goal thrashing of Leeds United. Upon that victory, Antonio Conte and Spurs will be looking to build upon as they host an Everton team that has struggled as much for consistency as Tottenham has. Here are the XI we think Conte will start.

Spurs Projected Defence

Unless we see the return of Davinson Sanchez, there is little to expect to see a change in the Tottenham defence that has struggled of late.

Left-back – Ben Davies

Since Conte’s arrival, Ben Davies has become the default starter at left-back. Davies is often a bell-weather for Spurs, and when he is active and plays well, Spurs are active and playing well. Davies needs space, which comes from the wing-back pushing up. Thus, Davies has been more expansive and effective behind the more attack-minded Sergio Reguilon at wing-back versus the more conservative Ryan Sessegnon.

Centre-back – Eric Dier

Eric Dier has not played poorly since returning from injury, but his leadership and ability to organize the defense has not been at the level the team needs. It is difficult to fault Dier for players like Cristian Romero being out of position. However, Dier has been out of position at times and needs to be more thoughtful when working to clear the ball.

Right-back – Cristian Romero

Sometimes you see Cristian Romero and think he could easily be one of the best defenders in the world in the next season or two. Then there are other instances where you see Romero make mistakes, get beaten, and put his team in trouble. A lot of what ails Romero is what ails the entire team, a lack of attack in the midfield, leaving the Argentine trying to do more than he should.

Goalkeeper – Hugo Lloris

Although Lloris gave up the late goal during extra time to Middlesbrough, Spurs’ captain did get a clean sheet in his last Premier League match. Lloris has been solid most of the season but not quite at the same level since signing his extension in January, but then again, none of the team has been. Spurs will need Lloris to make 3-4 big saves if they want all three points.