In anticipation of Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming Premier League match against Everton, scheduled for Saturday afternoon, the focus of speculation and analysis has centered around the team’s lineup, especially given recent developments and injuries. This fixture marks a significant opportunity for Spurs to secure their first victory of the current Premier League season. Their previous encounter, a draw against Leicester City, left much to be desired, particularly in the second half where the team struggled, leading to only a single point being earned despite a promising start.
Tottenham’s manager, Ange Postecoglou, faces several selection challenges as the team prepares to host Everton. The most pressing issue is the absence of Dominic Solanke, who sustained an ankle injury during the game against Leicester. Consequently, Solanke will not feature in the upcoming match. This injury significantly impacts Spurs’ attacking options, potentially paving the way for Richarlison to step into a more prominent role. However, Richarlison’s recent lack of match fitness, having only returned to training in the last two weeks, means he has not yet played a full part in pre-season preparations. Alternatively, Postecoglou may opt to deploy Dejan Kulusevski in the false nine role, a position in which Kulusevski had shown considerable promise during pre-season.
Further complicating the situation, Tottenham also experienced additional injury setbacks during their previous match. Rodrigo Bentancur, who suffered a head injury, will be unavailable due to concussion protocols. Additionally, Pedro Porro had to be substituted late in the game due to a knock, though he is expected to be fit for the Everton match. Bentancur’s absence opens the door for either Yves Bissouma or Archie Gray to fill the midfield void. Bissouma’s return to the squad may be contingent upon the club’s decision to ease him back into action following a recent indiscretion. On the other hand, Archie Gray, who has impressed during pre-season and training, could be given the opportunity to start in the Premier League for the first time.
In terms of squad availability, new signing Wilson Odobert is now eligible for selection following the receipt of his work permit. Odobert, who joined Tottenham from Burnley for £30 million, adds depth to the squad and could potentially make an impact.
Considering these factors, the following is a projected lineup for Tottenham Hotspur’s match against Everton:
Guglielmo Vicario is anticipated to start in goal. The Italian goalkeeper will need to be prepared for any threats, particularly from set pieces, as Everton previously targeted him in such situations.
In defense, Pedro Porro is expected to occupy the right-back position. Despite his recent injury, Porro has been deemed fit for selection. Cristian Romero will partner with Micky van de Ven at center-back, with Romero set to mark his 100th appearance for Tottenham. Van de Ven, having completed his first full 90 minutes in a while, is expected to be more attuned to the demands of the game. Destiny Udogie, who secured his first start since April, will likely continue at left-back, benefiting from his recent game time.
The central midfield positions could see Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray feature prominently. Sarr displayed strong performance in the first half against Leicester and will be required to maintain that level of play. Gray, who has impressed in training and pre-season, might be given the opportunity to start, particularly if Bissouma is not immediately reinstated to the starting eleven.
James Maddison is expected to operate in one of the central midfield roles as well, needing to replicate his first-half performance from the previous game to provide the creative spark Tottenham requires.
On the flanks, Brennan Johnson is likely to start on the right wing despite his recent struggles. Odobert will provide competition, but Johnson may be preferred initially. On the left wing, Son Heung-min, the team captain, will aim to deliver a strong performance in front of the home supporters.
In the attacking role, Dejan Kulusevski could be utilized as a false nine, a role he adapted well to during pre-season. Given Richarlison’s limited match fitness, Kulusevski might be favored to start in this position, with the Brazilian potentially making a shorter appearance as he continues to regain full fitness.
In conclusion, Tottenham Hotspur’s selection for the game against Everton will be influenced by recent injuries and player availability. Postecoglou’s choices will be crucial as he aims to secure the team’s first win of the season and address the areas of concern observed in their previous match. The lineup, as projected, reflects both the challenges and opportunities facing Spurs as they prepare to take on their opponents.
