Tottenham have struggled for form in recent times and a good opportunity awaits them at Craven Cottage to turn things in their favour, as they travel within the city, to face Fulham in the 5th round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Spurs have won just 2 of their last 6 games in all competitions and suffered a shock defeat against KAA Gent in the 1st leg of the Europa League round of 32. Pochettino was confident in his pre-match press conference and has hinted that he will give his fringe players a chance to shine.
It appears that the Argentine will not take a chance with Harry Kane’s fitness as the striker has a late test ahead of the game after he suffered a knee injury against Gent on Thursday night.
Team News:
Harry Kane and Jan Vertonghen have late fitness tests but will train before the boss takes a final call on their involvement in the game.
Danny Rose (knee) and Erik Lamela (hip) will both remain out for the tie.
Predicted line-up:
With Pochettino hinting at squad rotation, a few surprise inclusions can be expected when Tottenham take the field on Sunday afternoon. Here is a prediction of which players may get a nod from the Spurs manager for the 5th round of the football’s oldest cup competition.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper – Hugo Lloris
Lloris is virtually irremovable from the Tottenham line-up and the captain is very important for the club on and off the pitch. A no brainer to include the French shot-stopper.
Right Fullback – Kieran Trippier
This might be a good chance for Pochettino to give Walker a breather after a heavy game on Thursday night. Trippier might get a start and it would be a chance wasted if he doesn’t perform well.
Right Centre Half – Eric Dier
Eric Dier has been present in the defence ever since Vertonghen’s injury and is expected to keep his place in the team on Sunday as well.
Left Centre Half – Toby Alderweireld
The Belgian defender has been a rock at the back for Tottenham and is highly essential for Spurs to keep things tight at the back. He is almost a certain starter.
Left Fullback – Ben Davies
Though Davies has struggled in recent games, he is expected to start against Fulham, given that Danny Rose is still injured. It’ll be interesting to see if he can repay his manager’s faith in him.
Central Midfield – Harry Winks
Wanyama deserves a much-needed rest with Harry Winks taking up his position in the middle. The youngster has had some decent games in recent times and would be hoping to impress the boss once again.
Central Midfield – Moussa Dembele
Moussa was one of the brightest players for Tottenham against Gent when he came on as a substitute. The Belgian should start this game.
Right Wing – Christian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen did not start on Thursday night and Moussa Sissoko was given an opportunity. However, with the Frenchman not really making an impact for Tottenham, it is possible that Pochettino may restore Eriksen to the starting line-up.
Left Wing – Son Heung-min
Son Heung-min might get a start as well as it can be expected that the Tottenham boss might go for a 4-2-3-1 formation which has clicked for him on most occasions.
Attacking Midfield – Dele Alli
Dele Alli has been magical for Spurs this season and has been a real contributor for his team. He is vital in their build-up play and is almost certain to start on Sunday as well.
Striker – Vincent Janssen
With Harry Kane having a late fitness test on Saturday, the Dutch summer signing might get a chance to impress his boss on Sunday. Confidence seems to be the key as Janssen looks to regain his scoring touch.
