Tottenham Hotspur travel into another highly charged north London derby this weekend, and with Thomas Frank searching for a statement result, we have attempted to predict the Dane’s starting XI against Arsenal.
Thomas Frank will be hoping to get one over Tottenham Hotspur’s biggest rivals, Arsenal, when the two face off on Sunday.
The Dane’s record against the Gunners inspires little confidence, as he has won just one of his last nine meetings against the Gunners.
Despite it being a big ask, Spurs supporters will be looking to see their side put up a fight at the weekend as Tottenham look to get back to winning ways after their 2-2 draw with Manchester United in matchweek 11.
With Spurs chasing a win, we have now attempted to predict Tottenham’s starting XI for their clash at the Emirates.
Predicted Tottenham XI vs Arsenal
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: It is most definitely a no-brainer on who will be behind the sticks for Tottenham, as Guglielmo Vicario has been in good form of late, and he should keep his place.
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Right-back – Pedro Porro: Thomas Frank is not afraid to mix this up in the full-back position, as we have seen him move Djed Spence to the right with Destiny Udogie staying on the left, but we do not expect any changes at right-back when Spurs visit the Emirates Stadium.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero: The Argentine impressed while with Argentina in his singular friendly clash during the break, and he should be fresh to play against Arsenal.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: The Dutchman is a man in good form and he will be an asset for Frank in this encounter, where set pieces will be crucial. He is Spurs’ top goal scorer and he should start at the weekend.
Left-back – Destiny Udogie: We do expect Djed Spence to miss out here, with Frank opting for a more left-footed option in Udogie to help keep width on the flank.
Pivot midfielder – Joao Palhinha: The midfield could be very physical, and this will be the sort of encounter where Palhinha’s defensive acumen will be of great use.
Pivot midfielder – Rodrigo Bentancur: With this being an away clash, Frank will want to keep this tight in the middle of the park, and that should see him continue with the pivot pairing of Palhinha and Bentancur.
Centre midfielder – Xavi Simons: This will be a big game for Simons, who could announce himself to the Lilywhites faithful in style after a series of underwhelming displays since his move to north London. We can see Frank sticking with the Dutchman, especially after his goal while away with the Netherlands.
Right winger – Mohammed Kudus: The Ghana international missed out against Copenhagen and Manchester United in Spurs’ last two games. If he is fit, he will take up a spot on the right.
Striker – Richarlison: Spurs are short of number nine options, with Randal Kolo Muani picking up a facial injury against United and Dominic Solanke also sidelined. This leaves Frank with Richarlison and Tel as his main centre-forwards.