Richarlison decision made as £165k-a-week player drops out: Tottenham predicted XI v West Ham
Tottenham Hotspur are preparing for a pivotal Premier League clash this Saturday as they face their London rivals, West Ham United, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It’s a match that holds significant importance for both teams, especially for Spurs, who are desperate to return to winning ways after a series of inconsistent performances. The game is set to kick off at 12:30 pm, making it the weekend’s early fixture, and promises to be a fierce and competitive encounter as both clubs seek to climb the league table.
Under the guidance of new head coach Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham have displayed flashes of brilliance throughout the campaign. The team has been able to dominate large portions of many matches, showing a style of play that blends attacking flair with high pressing. Postecoglou’s influence is clear, as Spurs have adopted a more positive and fluid approach compared to recent seasons. The potential is undeniably there for Tottenham to become a true force and a nightmare for any opponent in the league. However, their progress has been hampered by two recurring issues: defensive mistakes and an inability to convert clear-cut chances into goals consistently. These problems have seen them drop valuable points, resulting in a league position that does not reflect their potential.
Currently sitting in ninth place, Tottenham will need to address these issues if they are to mount a serious challenge for European qualification. Their defensive frailties have been particularly concerning, with lapses in concentration at the back often costing them dearly. Meanwhile, their attack, despite creating numerous chances, has struggled with clinical finishing on several occasions. This lack of consistency has left Postecoglou frustrated, as his side has failed to string together the results needed to rise up the standings. As the season progresses, there is growing pressure on Tottenham to find the right balance and deliver the kind of performances that match the ambition of both the club and its supporters.
West Ham United, on the other hand, will arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with renewed confidence. The Hammers, currently 12th in the table, have been on a mixed run of form but were buoyed by a resounding 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town in their last outing. That emphatic win has given David Moyes’ side a much-needed boost, and they will be eager to build on that performance as they take on their city rivals. Despite being positioned in the lower half of the table, West Ham remain a dangerous and unpredictable opponent, capable of producing impressive performances, particularly in high-stakes matches like this one.
The rivalry between Tottenham and West Ham adds an extra layer of intensity to the contest. London derbies are always highly anticipated, and this one will be no exception. The clash between these two clubs has a long and storied history, and both sets of fans will be eager to see their side come out on top. For Tottenham, a win would not only help them regain momentum but also send a statement that they are still very much in the hunt for a strong finish in the league. West Ham, meanwhile, will view this as an opportunity to derail Spurs’ progress and take a valuable three points back to East London.
As the match draws nearer, the focus has turned to Ange Postecoglou’s team selection. The Australian manager has mostly positive news on the injury front. Star forward and club captain Son Heung-min has been declared fit after recovering from an injury that kept him out of recent action. Son’s availability is a major boost for Spurs, as his leadership and attacking prowess are crucial to the team’s success. Richarlison, another key player in Tottenham’s attacking unit, is also back in contention after overcoming his own injury concerns.
Additionally, Postecoglou confirmed that young midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who picked up a knock during the international break, has returned to training and is available for selection. This will give Postecoglou some valuable depth in midfield, as he looks to rotate his squad effectively. However, there is still some disappointment for Spurs fans, as summer signing Wilson Odobert remains unavailable. The highly-rated winger is nearing a return to full fitness, but this weekend’s match will come too soon for him to make his long-awaited debut.
With a largely fit squad at his disposal, Postecoglou is expected to make only minor adjustments to the team that faced Brighton in their last league outing. The most significant change is likely to see Son Heung-min restored to his place on the left wing. Timo Werner, who filled in during Son’s absence, struggled to make a meaningful impact against Brighton, and it seems inevitable that Son will take his place in the starting XI. Given Son’s status as captain and his ability to influence games with his pace, finishing, and work ethic, it is a straightforward decision for Postecoglou to bring him back into the fold.
In goal, Guglielmo Vicario is expected to continue his role as Tottenham’s first-choice goalkeeper. The Italian shot-stopper has shown flashes of brilliance this season and will be looking to provide a solid foundation for Spurs’ defense. Ahead of him, the back four is likely to feature Destiny Udogie at left-back, with Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero forming the central defensive partnership, and Pedro Porro occupying the right-back position. This defensive unit has shown promise but will need to cut out the errors that have plagued them in recent weeks.
In midfield, Tottenham will rely on the creativity of James Maddison to pull the strings and unlock West Ham’s defense. Maddison has been one of Spurs’ standout performers this season, and his ability to create chances and link up play will be vital. He is expected to be supported by the dynamic Rodrigo Bentancur and the versatile Dejan Kulusevski, who can both provide energy and defensive cover, as well as contribute to the attack.
Up front, Dominic Solanke is likely to lead the line for Spurs. The striker has steadily established himself as a reliable option, and while Richarlison is back in the squad, Solanke is expected to retain his place, with Richarlison possibly being introduced from the bench. Solanke’s physicality and goal-scoring instincts will be key to Tottenham’s attacking play, especially with Son and Brennan Johnson providing width and pace on either flank. Johnson, in particular, will be a player to watch, as he has been in exceptional form for both club and country. The Welsh forward recently netted his seventh goal in seven consecutive games for his national team and will be eager to continue that hot streak in the Premier League.
Here’s a look at the predicted Tottenham XI for their clash against West Ham United, lining up in Postecoglou’s preferred 4-3-3 formation:
Predicted Tottenham XI v West Ham (4-3-3):
Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Kulusevski, Bentancur, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Son.
As the two sides prepare to do battle, this match is shaping up to be an exciting and tightly contested affair. Tottenham will hope that their home advantage, combined with the return of key players like Son and Richarlison, will provide the spark they need to get back to winning ways. West Ham, however, will be determined to continue their resurgence and claim a significant scalp by defeating their London rivals.