Tottenham Hotspur are set to host Brighton & Hove Albion at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday.
This has probably been said for every game since January, but this is really a Do or Die game for the north London side. They are in the relegation zone, two points behind West Ham and three behind Nottingham Forest. Tottenham need their rivals to drop points, but more importantly, win a few themselves.
With zero wins in their last 14 Premier League games, they now need to win at least three, if not more, in their remaining six games. They come into the Brighton clash after a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game in charge. It also saw Cristian Romero getting ruled out for the season after Brian Brobbey pushed him into Antonin Kinsky.
Hence, De Zerbi is already forced to make a big change in defense for the clash against his former side. However, he could and should also make some other changes to the lineup that started against Sunderland.
Predicted Tottenham XI for Brighton clash
GK: Antonin Kinsky
Guglielmo Vicario wasn’t seen in training after his hernia surgery. Hence, Kinsky will most likely start with the headband he was forced to wear after his collision with Romero against Sunderland.
Defense: Pedro Porro, Kevin Danso, Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie
The defense picks itself. This is the best back four Tottenham have available at the moment, with Romero out for the season. Danso put in some decent performances under Igor Tudor and will be keen to impress De Zerbi as well.
Also Read: Robert Ayala’s comments prove Cristian Romero’s season – and Tottenham career is all but over
It will be interesting to see if Van de Ven retains the captain’s armband with Romero out.
Midfield: Archie Gray, Joao Palhinha, Xavi Simons
De Zerbi has praised Conor Gallagher since arriving at Tottenham, and hence, it’s perhaps a bold prediction to bench him.
However, he put in another poor performance against Sunderland. Moreover, Spurs’ entire starting midfield made 0 tackles in that game, which could lead to Palhinha’s inclusion.
Also Read: Tottenham receive massive Rodrigo Bentancur injury boost ahead of Brighton clash
Meanwhile, Xavi Simons must start for the north London side. He is their only creative player available, and they desperately need goals.
Attack: Mathys Tel, Dominic Solanke, Randal Kolo Muani
Just like Xavi Simons, Mathys Tel must start for Tottenham. He is their only senior attacker who can play well on the wings and has consistently shown a positive drive.
With no right winger, Kolo Muani will most likely keep his place. Up front, Richarlison is perhaps a better option than Solanke at the moment. However, considering he was subbed off earlier last week, it could perhaps indicate a preference towards the Englishman for De Zerbi.
Tottenham showed some good signs against Sunderland in the first 15-20 minutes. However, due to perhaps the mental pressure and lack of confidence, they went back into their shells.
Whatever lineup De Zerbi eventually picks on Saturday, they must ensure they keep fighting for 90 minutes. It is a monumental game for Spurs and perhaps their last chance to give fans some hope of survival.
