Tottenham Hotspur Set to Clash with Manchester City: Aiming to Extend Unbeaten Streak Despite Injury Challenges
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This Sunday, Tottenham Hotspur will face Manchester City in a crucial Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Both teams are eager for a positive result, with Spurs looking to build on their recent successes, including two victories in the UEFA Champions League.
Currently, Tottenham is in a precarious position in the league, sitting in 14th place, just eight points above the relegation zone. This match is vital for their hopes of climbing the table and regaining momentum in domestic competitions.
Injury concerns and squad adjustments
One of the most pressing issues for Spurs ahead of this match is player fitness.Mickey van de Ven, a key defender, is uncertain for the game due to a minor injury. Manager Thomas Frank indicated that Van de Ven istouch and gofor the encounter, having missed the recent 2-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt.
“Micky is a minor one; he’ll be assessed before the match,” Frank noted. His potential absence could necessitate a tactical adjustment, withJoão Palhinhalikely stepping in as one of three central defenders after his solid performance in Germany.
Other players on the injury list
Alongside Van de Ven, several other players are sidelined, includingPedro PorroandRicharlison, both dealing with hamstring injuries. Porro’s injury is expected to take at least four weeks to heal, putting additional pressure on the defense. Frank expressed hope that both Porro and Richarlison could return for the north London derby on February 22.
“It would be a dream scenario to have them back in time,” Frank said, although he emphasized the importance of caution as they approach potential return dates.
Squad depth and tactical options
Despite these injury setbacks, Tottenham has viable options for their starting lineup. The return ofConor GallagherandYves Bissouma, who were unavailable for the Champions League due to eligibility issues, strengthens the midfield. Additionally, forwardDominic Solankeis fit to start after making a significant impact from the bench in the last match.
Frank expressed confidence in Solanke’s readiness, stating, “He’s still building, but he’s prepared to start on Sunday.” This reflects the manager’s faith in Solanke’s abilities, especially following his goal-scoring display against Frankfurt.
Predicted lineup and strategies
Given the current injuries, Tottenham is expected to use a 3-4-3 formation. The lineup may featureGuglielmo Vicarioin goal, supported by Palhinha,Cristian Romero, andDansoin defense. The midfield could includeDjed Spence,Archie Gray, Gallagher, andDestiny Udogie, while the attacking front may consist ofOdobert, Solanke, andXavi Simons.
However, Tottenham’s They have secured only four wins in their last 22 Premier League home matches, raising concerns about their form. Recent statistics reveal a troubling trend: they have drawn three and lost two of their last five league games, indicating a pressing need for improvement.
Looking ahead to the match
Currently, Tottenham is in a precarious position in the league, sitting in 14th place, just eight points above the relegation zone. This match is vital for their hopes of climbing the table and regaining momentum in domestic competitions.0
Currently, Tottenham is in a precarious position in the league, sitting in 14th place, just eight points above the relegation zone. This match is vital for their hopes of climbing the table and regaining momentum in domestic competitions.1
