Tottenham’s expected starting lineup for their Premier League clash against Liverpool has been tipped, with João Palhinha set to make his return to the side.
Tottenham Hotspur now shift focus to a huge Premier League encounter this weekend, with Thomas Frank hoping a rare midweek break can help set the tone for a crucial result against Liverpool. Below is our predicted Spurs XI to face the Reds.
With no Carabao Cup commitments, Spurs have enjoyed a full week on the training ground, allowing attention to turn firmly to league action.
Frank will be banking on the seven-day rest giving his squad the chance to regroup as they prepare to host reigning champions Liverpool.
The task is a daunting one, but a win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium would significantly ease the pressure on the Danish boss, who is keen to stop his side from sliding further down the table.
Tottenham predicted XI vs Liverpool
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario:
Despite committing two errors against Nottingham Forest — adding to a couple earlier in the campaign — there is little expectation that the Italian will be left out this weekend.
Right-back – Pedro Porro:
Porro came under fire from Martin O’Neill after apologising following the Forest defeat, with the former Villa boss urging him to let his football do the talking. Spurs supporters will be hoping for a strong response against Liverpool.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero:
Frank is unlikely to break up his central defensive pairing, especially with Spurs set to face an in-form Hugo Ekitike.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven:
The Dutch defender should partner Romero once again, with his recovery pace potentially vital against Liverpool’s attacking threat.
Left-back – Djed Spence:
With Destiny Udogie still sidelined, Spence is expected to start, although his substitution against Forest for Ben Davies suggests his spot is not completely secure.
Holding midfielder – Joao Palhinha:
While he has not been an automatic starter recently due to Frank’s rotation in midfield, Palhinha is tipped to come back into the XI for this fixture.
Holding midfielder – Rodrigo Bentancur:
A reunion of Bentancur and Palhinha in the double pivot looks likely, even if it may not excite all Spurs supporters.
Attacking midfielder – Xavi Simons:
Simons has shown flashes of form in recent outings and remains Spurs’ key creative influence. A home game could see him operate in the number ten role despite a quiet showing last time out.
Right wing – Mohammed Kudus:
After a difficult performance last weekend, the Ghanaian will be determined to bounce back and is expected to keep his place on the right.
Striker – Richarlison:
Though a divisive figure among fans, Richarlison remains Spurs’ most clinical forward in league action, leading the way with six Premier League goals.
Left wing – Brennan Johnson:
Limited minutes have fuelled speculation about Johnson’s future, with Crystal Palace reportedly monitoring his situation, but he could be handed a rare start on Saturday.
