Here is how Tottenham could line up with Conor Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher could be a part of a Tottenham Hotspur Matchday Squad as early as Wednesday for the UCL game against Borussia Dortmund. While there is a strong chance that he can also face West Ham over the weekend, Spurs taking that chance seems unlikely. Here, we see multiple ways in which the Lilywhites could line up with the 25-year-old Englishman. Some lineups are immediate, while some lineups are based on an injury-free assumption.
OPTION 1: 4-2-3-1
Best Balance, Simplest Integration. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven in the heart of the defence, flanked by Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie. Gallagher sits next to Palhinha and does what Spurs have been missing: intensity, counter-pressing, and covering ground when the full-backs fly. Simons becomes the central link, with one winger playing direct, and the other can play as the “wide playmaker” who drifts inside. Say Mathys Tel on one side and Wilson Odobert on the other side. Attack led by Dominic Solanke / Richarlison.
OPTION 2: 4-3-3 (I)
Gallagher as the runner #8. This is the “vertical” Spurs setup. Palhinha holds, Gallagher presses and carries, Sarr adds athletic coverage, and the front three can run in behind. Tel’s pace and movement can stretch teams, giving Solanke more space to work.
OPTION 3: 4-3-3 (II)
More control with James Maddison in the middle of the park. This shape is for games where Spurs need a passer on the pitch. Maddison gives creativity, Gallagher gives the legs and ball-winning, and Palhinha sits behind both to stop counters. Kudus stays high and direct; Kulusevski helps with progression.
OPTION 4: 3-4-2-1
More protection while still being attacking in essence. This is the “fix the defensive chaos” system. Spurs still get width from Porro and Udogie, but the back three of Romero, Micky and Kevin Danso gives security. Gallagher is huge here: he presses, covers wide spaces, and keeps Spurs competitive in the middle alongside Palhinha. Porro and Udogie as the wing-backs. Xavi Simons and Maddison are behind the lone striker.
OPTION 5: 4-4-2
When Spurs need chaos and energy. This one is all about aggression. Spurs can press from the front with two strikers, Gallagher steps out to win duels, and Palhinha protects the centre. It’s a proper “force mistakes” setup, especially at home. Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie
Kudus, Palhinha, Gallagher, Kulusevski, Solanke, and Tel. Mix and match the players as per requirements, remain dynamic, but the original setup remains this.
The most immediate, realistic XI Tottenham can put out with their injury issues now could be this. Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Palhinha, Conor Gallagher; Odobert, Simons, Tel; Solanke.
Palhinha and Gallagher are the quickest way to stop Spurs getting run through in transitions after losing the ball. Simons at 10 is the best available “glue” with Maddison and Kulusevski still out. Tel and Odobert give the legs, and direct running Spurs desperately need with Kudus also missing. Solanke leads the line and gives structure with hold-up play and pressing.
