Sports Illustrated

For some, this was a predictable outcome.

Igor Tudor has failed to see out his short-term contract at Tottenham Hotspur, lasting just seven games and 44 days in north London before his departure was confirmed by the club on Sunday.

The Croat replaced the mightily unpopular Thomas Frank with Spurs five points clear of the drop, and enjoying the buffer of several teams below them in the table. He departs after claiming just a single Premier League point with the Lilywhites sunk further into the mire.

Now, just a point separates the Europa League holders from an apocalyptic fate.

The decision-makers in north London don’t yet know which direction to turn, but Tudor’s position was deemed untenable after last week’s 3–0 defeat to a direct relegation rival, Nottingham Forest.

Whomever they opt to replace the mourning Croat has the unenviable task of keeping a club that perceives itself to be capable of breaking bread with Europe’s elite in the top flight. Here’s what Tottenham must do to avoid the drop after letting go of their interim manager.

Tudor arrived in N17 with plenty of sceptics, and those who claimed the 47-year-old was destined to fail because he “doesn’t know our game!”, the English one, that is, will undoubtedly be lapping up a grand sense of vindication right now.

And while the issues at Tottenham transcend merely the figure on the touchline, the club would be wise to acknowledge the error they made in appointing Tudor.

They trusted a recommendation of ex-sporting director Fabio Paratici, and believed the immediate impact Tudor has made elsewhere, not just in Italy, but in France with Marseille, too, would be felt in north London.

But it wasn’t to be. Tudor’s failure wasn’t solely down to a lack of Premier League nous, but given the situation Spurs are in, it’d seem wise to appoint a coach with either intimate knowledge of the club itself, or their current predicament.

They shouldn’t panic themselves into bringing forward the appointment of their next ’project’ manager. Instead, they would be better advised to run it back with Ryan Mason or try to tempt Robbie Keane over from Ferencváros. Swallowing your pride and trusting Sean Dyche, who got Everton out of the mire in 2022–23, wouldn’t be the worst idea either.

Now is not the time for Adi Hütter to enjoy his first experience of the English top flight.

Thomas Frank sapped the life out of a squad that entered 2025–26 riding a wave of momentum after that glorious night in the Europa League final.

The Dane’s soccer was turgid and bereft of courage, with Tudor constantly hinting throughout his brief reign that his players needed to shed their “bad habits” to stop the rot. The interim was unable to overcome all of Frank’s bad, and the next incumbent will surely struggle to facilitate a complete overhaul.

While there were at least positive moments under Tudor, most notably against Liverpool and Atlético Madrid (when everyone had the correct footwear) this remains a broken Tottenham squad without reliable leadership.

There was a sense that Tudor’s no-nonsense style wasn’t ideal for the vulnerable Lilywhites, who instead need some tender loving care. Harry Redknapp would’ve been the ideal solution 10 years ago, but the venerated former manager has been out of the game since 2017, and is more concerned with horses and reality television than soccer, even if he’d love to take the job on.

This is a talented enough group of players to stay up; there’s no doubt about that, but they’ve got to swiftly rediscover their love for a sport that’s been merciless to them as of late. Empowerment is key for the next manager. Spurs won’t low-block and grind their way to safety.

There’s a feeling pervading through factions of the Tottenham fanbase that some of the playing staff regard themselves as above the current peril. Reports claim that some players have explicitly expressed as much in the dressing room. A perceived lack of care has seen previous fan favorites widely slandered.

Micky van de Ven is among those to come under heavy scrutiny, with the Dutchman’s form falling off a cliff in 2026 after enjoying a stellar autumn. Van de Ven took offense to such claims, and laughed off the idea that any of the players had downed tools, knowing they’d be able to move on in the event of an unfathomable relegation anyway.

It certainly wasn’t a motivation issue last week against Forest. Tudor should’ve started Xavi Simons after his excellent performance against Atléti, and was made to pay for panicking at halftime with a double substitution. In the end, Spurs’ poor technical base was exposed by a stubborn Forest defense that had few issues containing the hosts in the second half.

This is a gifted squad, but an obviously imperfect one. Those regarded as the most talented have let their teammates down at times this season, including the revered pair of center backs, and no one should be deemed above the law when it comes to team selection for seven cup finals down the stretch.

Those who have floundered don’t deserve the chance to enjoy late-season salvation, especially once more players return from injury. Those who have offered blood, sweat and tears to the cause as of late, like Archie Gray and Mathys Tel, must be cherished. It’s these figures who’ll help Tottenham survive.

Tottenham haven’t won a Premier League game since Mohammed Kudus succumbed to a thigh injury at the start of 2026. It’d be an understatement to suggest the Ghanaian’s absence has been keenly felt, especially with dazzling playmakers James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski yet to play a single minute this season.

Frank’s Spurs boasted little else by way of attacking innovation other than giving the ball to the really good soccer player down the right-hand side. Kudus was all Frank had during his miserable reign, with the Lilywhites almost exclusively dependent on the summer arrival’s ability to resist pressure and beat a man to create any openings in the final third.

The decision not to add an attacker to their ranks in the winter, having sold Brennan Johnson and lost Kudus to injury, was mind-boggling, and has contributed to their demise.

On the bright side, Kudus is on the comeback trail and potentially in contention for Tottenham’s next game against Sunderland on April 12. Soon, Spurs will be able to give the ball to the really good soccer player down the right-hand side again.

Things should be O.K. as a result.

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In a desperate attempt to lure the divisive figure of Roberto De Zerbi to north London, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering offering the outspoken Italian coach a contract which includes a release clause in the event of relegation.

Igor Tudor’s disastrous interim reign had not yet been brought to a merciful conclusion by the time De Zerbi’s name was first floated as a potential alternative. Now that the Croatian boss has officially parted ways with the club, thoughts are even more keenly focused on his successor.

There is understood to have been a reluctance from De Zerbi to take over a team perched perilously above the relegation zone. To dissuade those concerns, there have even been discussions about including a release clause in the former Brighton and Marseille boss’s contract which would allow another club to extract him from his Spurs deal were they to get relegated under his watch, according to The Times.

De Zerbi is thought to be “amenable” to the idea of taking over Tottenham but only if another incumbent has successfully avoided relegation, BBC Sport report in the aftermath of Tudor’s exit. It remains to be seen whether this release clause option will be offered and if it will be accepted.

Tottenham are not in action again until April 12, when they travel to Sunderland for the first of their seven remaining Premier League matches. The club reportedly want to give their new coach—the club’s third of the season—at least 10 days to prepare for that match.

Even without taking into consideration this incredibly risky release clause proposal, talk of De Zerbi’s potential appointment has inspired widespread backlash from the Spurs fanbase.

Why Tottenham Fans Are Protesting Against Potential De Zerbi Appointment

Multiple Tottenham fan groups have joined forces to warn the club against appointing De Zerbi following his public defense of the controversial forward Mason Greenwood during their shared time at Marseille.

The former Manchester United winger did not play for the Premier League club again after being arrested in January 2022. He was subsequently accused of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Greenwood denied all accusations.

The U.K. Crown Prosecution Service dropped all charges in February 2023 after “a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction,” a spokesperson told the BBC.

Manchester United then conducted an in-house investigation which lasted until August 2023. At that point, the club claimed: “Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged.” However, it was decided that he would not play for United again. “As Mason publicly acknowledges today,” a statement at the time read, “he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for.”

Greenwood spent the 2023–24 season on loan at Spanish side Getafe before signing for De Zerbi’s Marseille in July 2024.

The ’No to De Zerbi’ Campaign

Before Greenwood had officially signed for Marseille, De Zerbi promised to publicly defend all his players “like [they were] my sons.” Earlier this season, the Italian coach described the forward as “a good person,” adding: “It saddens me what happened to him because I know a very different person from the one portrayed in England.”

These comments are among those to have inspired the ‘No to De Zerbi’ campaign launched by some Spurs supporters.

The Proud Lilywhites group, Women of the Lane and Spurs Reach all released statements criticizing De Zerbi’s defense of Greenwood.

“When someone in that position publicly defends a player like Mason Greenwood, and frames it in a way that downplays the seriousness of what happened, it matters, not just in isolation but in what it signals,” The Proud Lilywhites group wrote.

Women of the Lane accused De Zerbi of statements which “downplays the seriousness of male violence against women and girls. That raises serious questions about judgement and leadership.” Spurs Reach argue: “Regardless of intent, framing of this nature risks normalising harmful attitudes, diminishing the experiences of survivors, and sending a deeply concerning message about what is tolerated within the game.”

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Tottenham Hotspur have twisted again in their bid to avoid a stunning relegation, as the club have parted ways with interim manager Igor Tudor after just 44 days.

Tudor joined Spurs last month in the wake of Thomas Frank’s departure on a short-term basis, but the Croat’s position was deemed untenable at a perilously critical juncture after earning just a single point from five Premier League outings.

His team, who looked to have turned a corner by drawing at Anfield and beating Atlético Madrid, were cast aside by direct relegation rivals Nottingham Forest 3–0 last week, and Spurs opted to cut ties with Tudor seven days on.

The direction a hugely unpopular board go next will be fascinating, with Tottenham’s third manager of a dismal 2025–26 campaign having the sole task of keeping the Lilywhites in the top flight. There are just seven games left, with Spurs 17th and just one point clear of the drop zone.

Here are how the next five Premier League games look for those fighting to survive.

Tottenham, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, West Ham’s Next Five Premier League Matches Compared

It was a delicate situation for Tottenham to navigate, as Tudor’s father, Mario, passed away last week. He’s returned home to mourn, and the club’s lengthy wait for their next Premier League outing meant they didn’t need to announce his departure at the start of the international break.

Whomever Spurs opt for as his replacement will make the long trip north for their first outing, with the Lilywhites facing Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on April 12. Brighton & Hove Albion visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium the following week, before the capital club travel to Premier League basement dwellers Wolverhampton Wanderers, a team rejuvenated under Rob Edwards, but are all but assured of their place in the second tier next season.

May begins with a daunting trip to Aston Villa, currently scheduled to be a Saturday lunchtime kickoff, before Spurs host another critical relegation six-pointer, this time against a slumping Leeds United outfit.

Leeds took a few big strides towards safety over Christmas, but have been found wanting as of late. They’re winless in the top flight since Feb. 6, and Manchester United are up next for Daniel Farke’s side.

A trip to Bournemouth in late April also beckons, but they’ll hope to claim maximum points when Wolves and Burnley visit Elland Road.

Nottingham Forest have momentum on their side after winning handsomely in north London, and they’re being treated to back-to-back home games after the international break. Aston Villa and Burnley visit the City Ground before Forest travel to Sunderland and Chelsea.

The Tricky Trees also have the Europa League quarterfinals to navigate, with two games against Porto arriving on either side of the Villa clash. A home fixture against Newcastle United rounds off their upcoming slate.

West Ham will fancy their chances at home against Wolves after their FA Cup quarterfinal with Leeds, with a potential victory there boosting confidence ahead of two winnable fixtures away at Crystal Palace and home to an Everton side led by former boss David Moyes. The Toffees, however, have been excellent on their travels this season.

The Hammers will need to cash-in over the next few weeks, because May starts with a tricky trip to European hopefuls Brentford, then an encounter with Premier League leaders Arsenal at the London Stadium.

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In his typically inimitable style, Sean Dyche laughed off suggestions that he is in the running to replace Igor Tudor at Tottenham Hotspur, rubbishing numerous reports as “brilliant” examples of unfounded speculation.

Tottenham Hotspur are poised to appoint their third manager of a dismal 2025–26 season in short order, with Tudor likely to be let go next week after mourning the passing of his father, Mario.

Tudor has overseen four defeats and a draw in five Premier League outings, meaning Spurs are now 17th in the table and just a point clear of the drop zone. Relegation is no longer a fantasy that supporters can laugh off, but rather a frightening potential.

There had been signs of Tudor getting a tune out of a broken set of players, with a 3–2 victory over Atlético Madrid ensuring the Lilywhites entered their pivotal six-pointer against Nottingham Forest enthused. However, the 3–0 defeat that followed all but condemned Tudor, even if Spurs have little idea what direction to turn next.

An unpopular hierarchy has considered bringing their next long-term appointment forward to now, while supporters have called for someone familiar with the club to oversee their fight for survival. According to The Telegraph, Dyche is also being considered. According to the man himself, that isn’t likely to happen.

Dyche Recounts Hilarious Pub Encounter Over Spurs Job

“It’s brilliant, honestly,” Dyche responded when asked on a talkSPORT appearance about rumors tying him to the Tottenham job.

Speculation swirled on social media heading into the weekend, as images and clips of Dyche out and about in London surfaced. “I was in a pub just up the way near my place I’ve got down here and this guy goes, ‘Oh, you’re meant to be in talks with Spurs tonight.’

“I went, ‘Well, I’m sat next to you having a pint of Guinness, so it’s unlikely.’ I said, ‘Unless you work for Spurs and they’re in the Seven Stars pub having a pint of Guinness.’ I said, ‘It’s highly unlikely.’

“No I’m not, I’m with you mate and I’m on talkSPORT, that’s what I’m doing.”

A pivot to Dyche, who steered Everton to safety in 2022–23 but was recently sacked by Nottingham Forest, depicts Spurs’ perilous position and the desperation of a board that has little idea what they’re doing. Their Tudor gamble has backfired, and now they’re scrambling.

Tottenham’s ‘Preferred Candidate’ Is Hesitant

While plenty are still holding out hope that Mauricio Pochettino will return to oversee the “painful rebuild” he warned about in 2019, the U.S. men’s national team coach won’t be available until after the World Cup.

However, there will be no Poch reunion this summer if Spurs can appoint their preferred candidate to replace Tudor. Tottenham are trying to persuade former Marseille and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi—despite supporter backlash—but the Italian is adamant that he won’t take any job on until after the season’s conclusion, according to Sky Italia.

De Zerbi’s hesitance renders a Dyche pursuit more likely, although ex-Monaco coach Adi Hütter has also been linked with the role.

There should be greater clarity once Tottenham part ways with Tudor, if reports are accurate, on Monday.

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Tottenham Hotspur playmaker Dejan Kulusevski has been in high spirits over the international break, despite being sidelined since last May with a “complicated” knee injury.

Few would’ve expected the Swede to miss such a lengthy amount of time as a result of the setback, especially former Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou, who described Kulusevski’s issue as a “knock” at the time.

The 25-year-old’s collision with ex-Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi would not merely see him miss the 2025 Europa League final, but the entirety of the 2025–26 season so far as well. Potential return dates have been relentlessly bypassed, with a lack of communication from Spurs regarding Kulusevski’s recovery leaving supporters in the dark.

We still don’t know when the powerful playmaker could make his comeback, but Kulusevski seems to believe that the worst is over.

’Never Felt Better’—Kulusevski Remains Optimistic

An already fraught fanbase was sent into a tailspin at the start of the international break when videos emerged of Kulusevski walking with a limp as he spent time with the national team ahead of the UEFA branch of the World Cup playoffs.

The Spurs man provided clarity on Instagram in the aftermath, confirming that he underwent an “intervention” two weeks ago and said his knee is “great now.”

“I understand that people were worried. But it was really for the wrong reason,” he told Viaplay. “It was really positive that I did this little procedure and that we were able to find the problem.”

What exactly happened to Kulusevski’s patella remains unclear, with the most pessimistic drawing comparisons to the horrific injury Brazilian great Ronaldo sustained in 2000 that altered his career.

Kulusevski’s injury, while incredibly frustrating, isn’t believed to be quite so severe, and the 25-year-old, who’s previously credited the late, great Kobe Bryant and his ’Mamba Mentality’ as a major inspiration, remains optimistic over his outlook.

“Now everything should be solved. Now it's just a matter of slowly and surely coming back. I can see the light. It feels better now,” he added.

Will Kulusevski Play for Tottenham This Season?

Tottenham have sorely missed the creative presences of Kulusevski and James Maddison this season, with the latter tearing his ACL last August.

There’s hope that the Englishman will feature at some point down the stretch, boosting Spurs’ hopes of Premier League survival, but Kulusevski has another target in mind.

He is desperate to play at this summer’s World Cup, and Sweden will book their place at the tournament by beating Poland next Tuesday. Viktor Gyökeres’s hat-trick inspired a 3–1 victory over Ukraine in Thursday’s semifinal.

When asked if he sees himself playing for the national team in North America, Kulusevski confidently replied: “100%. Yes. That’s the driving force I have. To have that opportunity is absolutely fantastic. It’s a challenge that I haven’t been able to overcome so far in terms of getting healthy, but it’s not over yet.

“I’m absolutely convinced that we'll win these two games, and I’ll be ready to play and play my first World Cup in the USA. That’s how the movie will end, God willing.”

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The relegation fight in the Premier League took a major twist just before the March international break as the walls start closing in on one of the biggest clubs in England: Tottenham Hotspur.

Direct relegation rivals Nottingham Forest traveled to north London and destroyed Tottenham 3–0 on Sunday, overtaking them in the standings and putting the reigning Europa League champions on the brink of disaster.

Tottenham haven’t won in the league since December and have lost six of their last seven. There’s no other way around it, the ‘Big Six’ club’s form screams relegation.

Things could’ve been much worse for Spurs, though, but West Ham United also endured a painful defeat at the hands of Aston Villa and Nuno Espírito Santo’s side still occupy the third relegation place as things stand, one point behind Tottenham.

Leeds United would’ve liked to collect all three points, but a draw at home against Brentford saw them go four points clear of the relegation zone, getting a little breathing room from both Spurs and West Ham.

The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion of the relegation battle on the other side of the international break, one that could easily go until the final day. Here are how the next five Premier League games look for those fighting to survive.

Tottenham, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, West Ham’s Next Five Premier League Matches

Tottenham will make the trip north to face Sunderland after the international break, a mighty task for Spurs given the Black Cats are dreaming of European competitions after defeating bitter rivals Newcastle United. Brighton & Hove Albion will visit north London the following weekend before Spurs finish the month with a must-win trip to bottom of the league Wolverhampton Wanderers.

May begins with a daunting trip to Aston Villa, before Spurs welcome Leeds United in a clash that could have massive ramifications in the fight for survival.

A rivalry match against Manchester United is up next for Leeds. Then, a trip to face Bournemouth in late April is sandwiched by home games against Championship-bound Wolves and Burnley, two favorable matches the Peacocks could capitalize on to exit the relegation fight by the time their aforementioned visit to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium comes around.

Nottingham Forest will look to build on their thumping win against Spurs when Aston Villa and Burnley visit the City Ground after the break. Yet Forest also have business to attend to in Europe, with their Europa League quarterfinal tie against Porto also taking place between those two league matches.

Away days against Sunderland and Chelsea as the calendar turns to May won’t be easy for Vítor Pereira’s side, regardless of how inconsistent the pair of opponents have been in 2026. Then comes a home bout against the slumping Newcastle during the second weekend of May.

West Ham will like their chances at home against Wolves after the break and a victory there could boost morale for the Hammers ahead of winnable matches away at Crystal Palace and home against an Everton side led by former boss David Moyes.

It’s critical that West Ham secure a couple of positive results in their next three games, since May begins with a visit to European hopefuls Brentford and a home bout against Premier League title-chasing Arsenal.

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Draws all around mean it’s as you were in the fight for Premier League survival, although two teams will be particularly content with their weekend’s work.

Leeds United and Nottingham Forest may view their respective stalemates with Crystal Palace and Fulham as opportunities missed, even if the former suffered through the entire second half at Selhurst Park with 10 men.

On the contrary, West Ham United once again fought admirably to secure a result against the title-chasing Manchester City, while Tottenham Hotspur reminded their supporters what the concept of hope feels like. Richarlison, Everton’s savior four years ago, isn’t going to let the Lilywhites succumb to a humiliating relegation, their first in almost 50 years.

It’s going to be a battle until the very last, with four teams scrapping to avoid one fatal position.

Here are how the next five Premier League games look for those fighting to survive.

Tottenham, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, West Ham’s Next Five Premier League Matches

Tottenham’s point at Liverpool means they have momentum on their side for what has to be regarded as their most significant fixture since the Europa League final. Nottingham Forest’s visit to north London next Sunday is a bona fide relegation six-pointer.

The second leg of Spurs’ Champions League round of 16 tie with Atlético Madrid arrives before Forest’s visit, but their main goal on Wednesday night, given that they’re 5–2 down, must be ensuring that everyone escapes the contest unscathed. They were without as many as 13 players at Anfield.

Leeds are at home to surprise European hopefuls Brentford next Saturday night, while West Ham visit the slumping Aston Villa.

The international break offers respite for the final push, with Spurs starting April away at Sunderland. A once-daunting trip now doesn’t look quite so intimidating, given the Black Cats’ poor run of form, especially at home. Brighton & Hove Albion visit N17 the following week before Tudor’s men take on resurgent bottom dwellers Wolverhampton Wanderers.

May begins with a trip to Villa Park.

A five-game winless run in the top flight means Leeds, so improved since Christmas, haven’t escaped the dogfight. However, upcoming home games against Wolves and Burnley present Daniel Farke’s side with a great opportunity to secure six points and veer towards safety. They also travel to Manchester United and mid-table Bournemouth in April.

Forest have back-to-back home games after the break, with Aston Villa and Burnley traveling to the City Ground. They’re then up in Sunderland to conclude April before visiting Champions League hopefuls Chelsea.

West Ham are also in west London on the first weekend of May, but they’re at Brentford. Before that, the Hammers will back themselves in all three of their April outings. A trip to Crystal Palace is sandwiched between the visits of Wolves and Everton. The latter have been a nuisance on the road this season, mind, and David Moyes would love to get one over his former employers.

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Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are renowned for staging chaotic, breathless affairs and the latest installment of the fixture comes at Anfield on Sunday.

The last three Premier League meetings on Merseyside have finished 4–3, 4–2 and 5–1, with the latter clinching Liverpool the Premier League title last season. The sides played out a 6–3 last term, too, while Spurs finished up with nine men in December’s defeat in north London.

Both clubs are eager to bounce back from disappointing midweek defeats in the Champions League. Liverpool slumped to an underwhelming 1–0 loss at Galatasaray but Spurs one-upped their misery later that evening as they slumped to a humiliating 5–2 defeat at Atlético Madrid—goalkeeper Antonín Kinský substituted after just 17 minutes following two seismic errors.

Such mistakes epitomize a dismal season that has only reached new lows since Igor Tudor took charge. Appointed as a firefighter in Tottenham’s surprise relegation fight, the club have lost four straight and conceded 14 times under the Croatian.

Liverpool have their own assignment as they search for Champions League qualification, with a top-five finish likely still enough to reach Europe’s premier competition despite the struggles of English sides in Europe this week. The Reds will be favorites on Sunday but have seldom enjoyed comfortable afternoons in the Premier League this term.

Liverpool vs. Tottenham Score Prediction

Liverpool to Pile More Misery on Spurs

Tottenham enter Sunday’s fixture at their lowest ebb in decades. The Lilywhites are perilously close to relegation, without a Premier League victory since the turn of the year and in abysmal form heading to one of their least favorite venues.

Tudor’s position is already in jeopardy and defeat on Merseyside could prove the final nail in the coffin. Based on recent results, an abundance of injuries and their truly dismal defensive record, they’re expected to lose yet again.

Liverpool have been wildly inconsistent this season and their recent form has been pretty dire, too, but they still boast far more quality and confidence than their visitors. With the aid of home advantage, the Reds should clinch three precious points—even if it isn’t entirely convincing.

Tottenham’s Anfield woes: The bad news for Spurs is they haven’t won at Anfield since 2011. They have lost 12 of their last 16 trips to the stadium and have conceded an alarming 17 across the past four visits.

Spurs injury issues: Fitness problems have derailed Tottenham’s season and continue to kill any hopes of a swift turnaround in fortunes. Micky van de Ven is certain to be suspended for the weekend and could join up to 12 other first-teamers on the absentee list. Tudor’s squad is being pushed to its limits.

Liverpool’s set-piece strengths: An improvement in their attacking set pieces has helped Liverpool paper over cracks in their misfiring forward line. Spurs, and in particular goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, rarely convince from corners and free kicks, with Slot’s side potentially taking advantage at Anfield.

Prediction: Liverpool 2–1 Tottenham

Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs. Tottenham

Liverpool are still sweating on the fitness of Alisson after he missed the trip to Istanbul on Tuesday. Slot has revealed he’s “hopeful” of the Brazilian’s return between the sticks but there is a chance Giorgi Mamardashvili is tasked with starting once more.

Federico Cheisa also didn’t make the journey to Türkiye due to illness and while Slot expects him to make his comeback this weekend, he admitted it’s not guaranteed.

Four players who are confirmed to miss out are Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley, all of whom are still recovering from long-term injuries.

There could be changes at full back from defeat at Galatasaray, Joe Gomez and Milos Kerkez possibly relegated to the bench, while Slot has a challenge on his hands to fix an underperforming attacking unit.

Liverpool predicted lineup vs. Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitiké.

Tottenham Predicted Lineup vs. Liverpool

Tottenham are inundated with injuries across their squad, with long-term issues for James Maddison, Mohammed Kudus and Dejan Kulusevski killing their ability to create chances. The absence of Wilson Odobert, Lucas Bergvall, Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur further limits Tudor’s options in midfield and forward areas.

Defensive ailments are causing problems for Tottenham as well. Destiny Udogie and Ben Davies are on the sidelines alongside the suspended Van de Ven, while Cristian Romero and João Palhinha are both missing after a sickening clash of heads at Atléti.

Vicario is certain to return between the sticks after the Kinský experiment dramatically backfired in Spain, while Conor Gallagher could come back into the starting XI after illness.

The skeleton crew will take to the field on Merseyside.

Tottenham predicted lineup vs. Liverpool (3-4-2-1): Vicario; Porro, Danso, Drăgușin; Gray, Gallagher, Sarr, Spence; Simons, Richarlison; Solanke.

What Time Does Liverpool vs. Tottenham Kick Off?

Location: Liverpool, England

Stadium: Anfield

Date: Sunday, March 15

Kick-off Time: 4:30 p.m. GMT / 12:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 a.m. PT

Referee: Chris Kavanagh

VAR: John Brooks

How to Watch Liverpool vs. Tottenham on TV, Live Stream

MORE: Full list of Premier League broadcasters around the world

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Liverpool return to Premier League action on Sunday afternoon looking to make amends for Tuesday night’s glum European loss.

Relegation-threatened Tottenham Hotspur are Liverpool’s rebound opponents after a dismal defeat in their Champions League round of 16 first leg with Galatasaray, the Reds succumbing to a 1–0 scoreline in Istanbul for the second time this season.

One eye will be on the return leg on Wednesday but Liverpool must first overcome struggling Spurs, who themselves were utterly humiliated in a 5–2 loss at Atlético Madrid midweek. Arne Slot’s side need victory to strengthen their push for Champions League qualification.

Liverpool Sweating on Alisson Fitness

Alisson, seemingly the world’s most injury-prone goalkeeper, was missing for the loss at RAMS Park and remains a doubt heading into the weekend. Slot has revealed he’s “hopeful” of the Brazilian’s return, but a late fitness test is required to determine his availability.

Federico Chiesa was another midweek absentee, the Italian missing through illness rather than injury, and he’s expected to make his comeback against Spurs—although he will only be used from the bench if he makes the squad.

Long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni continue their recoveries, too.

Slot has decisions to make elsewhere due to poor performances and the need for rotation ahead of the second leg. Mohamed Salah, who was substituted after an hour in Türkiye following another dreadful showing, is no longer certain of his starting berth, while the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Joe Gomez and Milos Kerkez could be rested.

⚠️ Key absentees, doubts: Alisson, Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Giovanni Leoni, Federico Chiesa.

🔢 Predicted formation: 4-2-3-1

Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs. Tottenham (4-2-3-1)

GK: Giorgi Mamardashvili—Alisson’s deputy produced some important stops to prevent Galatasaray from extending their advantage and may be called upon again this weekend.

RB: Jeremie Frimpong—Something needs to change down Liverpool’s right wing, which looked stale and predictable midweek. Frimpong could displace Joe Gomez at right back to provide some much-needed energy.

CB: Ibrahima Konaté—After an improved spell, Konaté reverted to his early season form on Tuesday. Fortunate not to single-handedly gift Galatasaray a second—spared by a questionable offside call—the Frenchman needs to up his levels against ex-Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke.

CB: Virgil van Dijk—Van Dijk started his 29th consecutive fixture in Istanbul, the longest run of any outfield player at Liverpool since stalwart Jamie Carragher’s 33-match streak from December 2009 to May 2010.

LB: Andy Robertson—After an excellent FA Cup showing at Molineux, Robertson was relegated to the bench in place of Milos Kerkez midweek. The roles could be reversed against Spurs.

DM: Ryan Gravenberch—Seldom afforded a rest due to Liverpool’s poor squad planning, Gravenberch will likely be forced to start all three matches before the March international break.

DM: Dominik Szoboszlai—Mac Allister looked absolutely shattered in Istanbul and deserves to be preserved ahead of the second leg. Szoboszlai could sink into the double pivot to cover.

RW: Mohamed Salah—In fear of another public outburst, Slot could well start Salah again this weekend. A recent flurry of goal contributions cannot mask consistently desperate displays down Liverpool’s right.

AM: Florian Wirtz—After a rusty performance on Tuesday, Wirtz could return to his preferred central role against Spurs. The German can really hurt an abysmal Tottenham defense from the No.10 position.

LW: Cody Gakpo—Rio Ngumoha should start against Spurs based solely on form, but Gakpo appears destined to return at left wing. More is needed from the Dutchman with Ngumoha sparkling in every appearance.

ST: Hugo Ekitiké—Ekitiké scored in Liverpool’s victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium back in December and will be seeking to torment a leaky defense without the suspended Micky van de Ven.

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Igor Tudor has reportedly lost respect from some sections of the Tottenham Hotspur dressing room for his treatment of the club’s goalkeepers yet is still expected to be in position for Sunday’s daunting Premier League trip to Liverpool.

Spurs teetered into what center back Micky van de Ven worryingly described as “doomsday scenario” after a 5–2 mauling at the hands of Atlético Madrid consigned the club to their first ever sequence of six straight defeats. Tudor has overseen the past four of those since replacing Thomas Frank but the prospect of the Croatian coach seeing out a contract which lasts until the end of the season has come under immense scrutiny.

Before a ball had even been kicked in Tottenham’s Champions League clash with Atlético on Tuesday night, Tudor had already “shocked” some members of his squad by dropping first-choice goalkeeper, Guglielmo Vicario, according to The Times.

Antonin Kinsky rapidly undermined the decision to hand him his Champions League debut with a ruinous opening quarter of an hour. The Czech youngster shipped three goals, two of which were a consequence of his own kicking blunders, before getting hooked in the 17th minute.

Tudor’s refusal to even acknowledge Kinsky upon his substitution is also thought to have been questioned by his teammates. The goalkeeper is expected to go in search of a Spurs departure this summer.

The exit door at Tottenham will surely be used by Tudor in the near future. However, multiple reports claim that no decision is planned—just yet.

Tudor to ‘Fight on’ at Tottenham for At Least One More Game

Despite the mounting pressure and dwindling faith from his playing staff, Tudor is set to “fight on” for Spurs against Liverpool at Anfield this Sunday, per The Guardian. Yet, that report is far from optimistic about the manager’s chances of still being in the dugout for the almighty relegation six-pointer against Nottingham Forest one week later.

Tottenham CEO Vinai Venkatesham opened up a dialogue with Tudor and his staff on Wednesday morning and is expected to leave the self-styled firefighter in the burning building for Friday’s prematch media duties at the very least, according to the Daily Mail.

Rather than any sign of encouragement, this stay of execution is simply the consequence of a lack of alternatives.

Tudor’s arrival came with a number of caveats yet he hardly beat out a swollen pool of obvious talent. While the likes of Roberto De Zerbi and Xabi Alonso appear out of reach for a side currently one point above the relegation zone, they have been left to consider a jumbled medley of candidates. Sean Dyche, freshly fired by Nottingham Forest, is the leading favorite to replace Tudor.

Harry Redknapp revealed this week that he has received no contact from Tottenham’s board but he did have a half-hour phone call with former executive chairman Daniel Levy.

The controversial figure was “marched out” of his position of influence at the start of the season yet still retains more than 29% of the club’s shares. According to Redknapp, the 79-year-old whose last job in management was in 2017 (his last Premier League posting came two years before that), he would have been Levy’s pick as Spurs boss.

“He did say to me, ‘Look, if I was there now, I would definitely, and I’m not just saying it, I would bring you back into it to the end of the season.’ So it would have been interesting,” Redknapp told talkSPORT.

In-Fighting Within the Tottenham Squad—Report

Beyond the figure limply flailing his arms around in the technical area, there is reportedly a sense of ill-will which exists between certain Spurs players.

This in-fighting has been sparked by accusations that some players are “not motivated” to battle Tottenham to safety. The Athletic sensationally claim that one unnamed individual has already let it be known that he “is not too concerned” by the threat of relegation as his future lies at a different club.

It’s little surprise for players in these dire situations to harbor selfish ambitions, but the willingness to let such a stance be public knowledge shows quite how toxic it has become behind the scenes.

“Every­thing that could go wrong went wrong,” Van de Ven fretted at the final whistle on Tuesday, his phone permanently switched off to avoid the waves of social media backlash washing the team’s way. “For our goalkeeper it’s terrible as well. You don’t wish that on ­anyone.

“It’s just really tough, and now we have an important match this weekend I won’t be able to play in because I’m suspended. It’s a really terrible period. It’s really, really awful.”

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