Projected 11 Spurs for Chelsea at Tottenham Hotspur in the EPL
By Aaron Coe
Projected Spurs midfield for the Blues
We know that injuries limit some of the choices in the midfield, with Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma both likely out for the season. Additionally, Ryan Sessegnon is still nursing whatever his latest knock is, leaving Tottenham a bit thin in the middle of the park.
Left-wing-back – Ben Davies
Ivan Perisic is back and available; however, Ben Davies provides a greater defensive presence at left-wing-back. Perisic has a little more attacking style and verve, but Davies is the right call to battle up and down the line against Reece James. After a wonderful performance last week against West Ham, Davies deserves another run-out on the left.
Central midfield – Oliver Skipp
There was some question about whether Pape Matar Sarr or Oliver Skipp would start against West Ham; however, I’m not sure the same question applies now. Skipp looked like the player developing in the first half of last season before his injury, providing some movement and something different with the ball. Although Sarr will get his minutes, Skipp is getting the call again.
Central midfield – Pierre Hojbjerg
Aside from a card suspension, the one constant in the Tottenham midfield this season has been our Viking, Pierre Hojbjerg. Based on his availability and consistent play, Hojbjerg has been paramount to what has been good about Spurs this season. Relentless defensively and expanding his passing range, Hojbjerg will need to be big in partnership with Skipp, as they will be outnumbered in the middle of the park.
Right-wing-back – Emerson Royal
As if he was the new signing coming in and playing to an unexpected level, Emerson Royal seems to have finally gotten it figured out on the right. Of course, the Brazilian is only one poor performance away from being fans’ whipping boy again, but for now, I know I am enjoying his purple patch. Long may it continue!