Tottenham are in need of a three point pick-me-up after a disappointing display against Manchester United as they host Newcastle on Sunday.
This will be no easy feat for the Lilywhites, however, as the visitors have only lost once in their opening eleven games.
Injuries are a hinderance to both sides, with the visitors expected to be testing their squad depth. Emil Krafth (knee), Matt Ritchie (calf), Karl Darlow (ankle), Alexander Isak (thigh), Allan Saint-Maximin (thigh) and Joelinton (knee) are all doubts for Sunday’s clash.
Spurs are experiencing injury woes of their own, with both Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski unavailable. It is still to be confirmed as to whether the latter will be available before the World Cup break, potentially limiting Antonio Conte’s options until Boxing Day.
Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son are expected to lead a two man attack on the weekend, as Conte hinted at 3-5-2 being the best solution for the time being.
When speaking on Friday, the Italian said, “The best situation for the team at the moment is to play with the three midfielders and then we’ll see the improvement of Lucas’ fitness.”
The Spurs boss then commented on the difficult situation his team has found themselves in this season, especially when it comes to injuries.
“We have to be strong and use this period to become stronger and stronger. I want players already to take responsibility when the situation is not easy.
“In this way you grow stronger and become a protagonist in the future.”
The talk of the future provides promising signs for a new deal for the Italian, with rumours of contracts for Antonio Conte and Harry Kane edging closer.
The right-wing-back position is also wide open for Conte’s selection once more, with Emerson Royal now eligible after serving his suspension.
Matt Doherty has made a strong claim for himself in the wing-back position, filling in for his Brazilian teammate.
With his form returning to that of last season, Conte praised him greatly and even shared an embrace with the Irish international.
This is an amazing turnaround for the pair’s rapport as only a couple of weeks ago did the former Inter boss deem Doherty ill-prepared to start.
Djed Spence has also been making an appearance off the bench for Tottenham, with fans excited about his potential. If neither Doherty nor Emerson Royal can secure the wing-back position, it may only be a matter of time before we see Spence make his full debut.
This upcoming fixture is crucial for the North London side. Form can easily shift and if the performance on Wednesday is not corrected immediately with a triumphant victory, regaining momentum may prove challenging.
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