Tottenham head into the match with a lengthy injury list, but there are some positive returns. Long-term absentees Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, and Radu Dragusin remain sidelined, while Yves Bissouma and Dominic Solanke are expected to rejoin training soon but are unlikely to feature. Randal Kolo Muani is back in contention after recovering from a dead leg that kept him out for five matches.
We also witnessed strong international form from young attackers Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel, who are pushing for starts after impressive showings for France U21s (Odobert with two braces and an assist; Tel with two goals), but might that be undone, in the Premier League which is an entirely different level to playing frankly embarrassing, third-rate International sides?
Richarlison is likely to feel fresh after limited minutes for Brazil, and he will expect to compete for a spot in the attack.
In defence, Djed Spence could replace Destiny Udogie at left-back following clean sheets with England U21s, partnering Pedro Porro on the right. Who might have predicted that Spence would be an England go-to player, when he joined Tottenham?
Cuti Romero is rested and ready to lead alongside Micky van de Ven. Midfield duo Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur provide solidity, with Pape Sarr or Xavi Simons vying for the No. 10 role. Personally, I’d like to see Sarr and Simons operate a double pivot and, with any luck, set up Richy with balls that even he couldn’t miss.
Villa’s starting XI is likely to take on a fresher vibe, as Unai Emery could well welcome back Ollie Watkins, who withdrew from the England squad as a precaution after a collision but has returned to training and is in contention to lead the line. But that’s not it.
Jadon Sancho, Emiliano Buendia, and Tyrone Mings should be available for the bench after recent recoveries. Donyell Malen has earned a start following a superb brace in Villa’s last win against Burnley, while Morgan Rogers is hitting form in attack.
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