Who will Spurs play at LB vs Chelsea?
Tottenham’s outing at Selhurst Park last Friday saw Ben Davies get the nod at left-back, factoring him into the starting XI for the first time in league play all season. This came after Destiny Udogie picked up a knock in the Fulham match a week prior.
Spurs are set to face Chelsea this coming Monday, and neither player is fully fit yet.
Commenting on their current status, here’s what Ange had to say:
“Benny Davies, who came off at half-time, still has a bit of an ankle problem and hasn’t trained with the team yet so he’s touch and go…
Destiny [Udogie] is still working his way through it… probably 50-50 at this stage as to whether he’ll be available.”
Udogie has been a crucial player all season, assisting not only as a defender but factoring into the midfield as an inverted full-back as well. His movement off the ball and technical ability have helped the team play from out of the back, retain possession in tight areas, and play through the lines for the front three.
The upcoming match will be especially tough for Spurs’ full-backs considering the speed of Chelsea’s wingers in Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling.
Not to mention, they’ll also have their hands full with Cole Palmer, whose movement all over the pitch adds an element of offensive creativity which is hard to defend against.
Considering the injuries at hand and the speed necessary to guard the flanks, it’s likely that Emerson Royal will be getting the green light from Ange.
The Brazilian had a fine start to the season. He appeared in the opener against Brentford playing at right back over current favorite Pedro Porro, and even found the back of the net for a crucial goal late in the first half to secure a 2-2 draw.
He’s always been known for his technical ability on the ball as opposed to a real defensive presence, however, with the currently limited options for the back line, he’s the best choice.
This will all be contingent on whether or not Udogie and Davies are fit for the match. Nevertheless, Emerson should start lacing up his boots, for he’s bound to come on if neither player’s condition improves.