Despite battling a wave of injuries, Tottenham Hotspur continue to excel in European and EFL Cup competitions. However, their Premier League campaign has left much to be desired, as they remain stuck in the lower half of the table. Ange Postecoglou’s side delivered an impressive performance on Thursday night, securing an away win against Hoffenheim in Europe. Now, they aim to carry that momentum into this weekend’s clash against 19th-placed Leicester City at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Leicester City held Spurs to a 1-1 draw in the opening match of the 2024-25 season. Pedro Porro’s first-half goal was equalized by Jamie Vardy, marking Leicester’s return to the Premier League. However, the Foxes remain in a precarious position, with their top-flight status in jeopardy unless they can turn their form around. The club recently appointed Ruud van Nistelrooy to replace Steve Cooper, but the Dutchman faces mounting pressure to deliver results and steer his team clear of the relegation zone before it’s too late.
Projected Tottenham Hotspur 4-3-3 Lineup Against Leicester City
Defence
Antonín Kinský missed the midweek match as he was not included in Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League squad. However, the Czech goalkeeper is expected to reclaim his spot, replacing Brandon Austin, until Guglielmo Vicario returns to action.
The return of the versatile Ben Davies has provided a much-needed boost for Ange Postecoglou, offering defensive cover amidst injuries to Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie. Djed Spence, who was not registered for the Europa League, is expected to take up the left-back role, allowing Archie Gray and Radu Drăgușin to continue as the central defensive pairing. Meanwhile, the ever-reliable Pedro Porro must maintain his excellent form with his marauding runs, precise crosses, and incisive cut-ins from the right flank.
Midfield
Injuries to Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr have left Tottenham with limited options in midfield. While both players remain doubtful for Sunday afternoon, Rodrigo Bentancur will need to step up as a deep-lying playmaker, showcasing his control and distribution. James Maddison, alongside 18-year-old sensation Lucas Bergvall, could provide a dynamic presence higher up the pitch with their box-to-box energy and creative flair.
Attack
Although Tottenham have been boosted by Richarlison’s return, they face a significant setback with fresh injuries to Dominic Solanke, Timo Werner, and Brennan Johnson. Captain Son Heung-min will look to regain his form, buoyed by his brace against Hoffenheim. Meanwhile, Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski must step up and find the back of the net, especially after both scored in Spurs’ narrow 3-2 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park.
