Tottenham Hotspur Projected XI for Roma Friendly in Israel

Projected Spurs Defence

There is some intrigue around who will start in the back for Tottenham, although not the kind most fans were likely looking for heading into the summer transfer window.

Left-back – Clement Lenglet

If not for the injury to Ben Davies, we would expect the Welshman to be playing here. Although Davies made the journey and is almost at full strength, it seems more likely he is held back and eased in with a long season ahead. Davinson Sanchez has been starting at left-back in Davies’s absence, but fans and the coaching staff got a glimpse of Lenglet in action against Rangers, and he probably should get another chance. If healthy, Davies will start against Southampton, so it makes sense in this instance for Conte to take a longer look at the French loanee.

Centre-back – Eric Dier

The only player that does not seem to have a back-up, which could be exacerbated if the loan/sale of Joe Rodon and Japhet Tanganga are to be believed, Dier is the default starter and really the only option in the middle of the defence.

Right-back – Cristian Romero

Romero is the unquestioned starter at right-back, hopefully for the next decade, showing the spirit, attitude, and aggression already in pre-season that makes him a plus defender. His willingness to fight for the ball is contagious in a good way.

Goalkeeper – Hugo Lloris

Whereas the hope is that Romero is in his position for the next decade, the reality is Lloris will have been in his for that long this season after joining from Lyon on deadline day in 2012. Lloris looked good against Rangers but has yet to keep a clean sheet, which would feel very good against his old boss.