The Football Faithful

West Ham United are stalling on Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Mohammed Kudus in the hope that Chelsea rival them for the player.

Spurs have had an opening offer of £50m turned down for Kudus, who has been made the club’s top target under new manager Thomas Frank. West Ham are open to letting Kudus leave to raise funds for transfer business but are hopeful of attracting a higher bid.

Chelsea have expressed interest in signing the Ghana international and could reportedly firm up that interest after the Club World Cup. Enzo Maresca’s side will take on either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid in Sunday’s final.

Despite the additions of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens, Chelsea remain keen to add to their options in a frontline overhaul.

Joao Felix, Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke could all depart, while Mykhailo Mudryk remains provisionally suspended. Kudus is viewed as a multi-functional option to boost the club’s depth and West Ham are waiting to discover the true extent of Chelsea’s interest.

Flashscore are reporting that the Hammers are stalling in negotiations with Spurs in the hope that a bidding war between their London rivals emerges.

Kudus is one of several options under consideration by Chelsea, who are also weighing up approaches for Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, Lyon winger Malick Fofana and Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho.

The West London side’s recruitment has been aided by their Club World Cup exploits. After reaching the final, Chelsea have banked a reported minimum of $105m (£77m) in prize money.

Read – Bournemouth submit opening bid for Chelsea goalkeeper

See more – Enzo Maresca hails Joao Pedro following dream Chelsea debut

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Aston Villa welcome Europa League finalists Tottenham Hotspur to Villa Park tonight for their final home game of the season.

Unai Emery’s side currently sit just outside the Champions League qualification places. The Villans are level on points with fifth-place Chelsea, but find themselves just below them in the table due to an inferior goal difference.

Jacob Ramsey will be unable to make an impact tonight due to suspension. The Englishman was sent off for two bookable offences in Villa’s previous match – a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

Youri Tielemans and Marcus Rashford are the other two absentees, with both of their campaigns cut short through injury. Prior to last weekend, Tielemans had started every single league match this term. However, a muscle strain has prevented his involvement over the last fortnight. Manchester United loanee Rashford may have made his final appearance for the club after sustaining a hamstring issue last month.

It is the penultimate league fixture of a wretched domestic campaign for Tottenham. They occupy 17th position, although their progression into the Europa League final has softened that blow.

Ange Postecoglou is expected to field a weakened side, with the clash in Bilbao against Manchester United just five days away.

Three of their primary creative sources – Lucas Bergvall, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski – are all unavailable. The latter was the most recent casualty, as he suffered a knee injury against Crystal Palace last weekend. Initial reports suggested it was merely a knock, but further tests revealed significant damage that required surgery.

Timo Werner was one of the players expected to benefit from the rotation, but his chance has been scuppered by a hamstring injury. Postecoglou confirmed captain Heung-min Son will feature in some capacity, as he aims to build up his match sharpness.

Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news

Form

Aston Villa: WLLWW

Villa have recorded successive slender triumphs over Fulham and Bournemouth to propel themselves within touching distance of Champions League qualification.

Unai Emery’s side have displayed their ability to control matches in recent weeks, with consecutive clean sheets against strong opposition.

Ollie Watkins’ winner against Bournemouth last Saturday made Villa history. The Englishman is now their top scorer in the Premier League, surpassing Gabriel Agbonlahor.

Three points on the South Coast guaranteed the Villans a spot in Europe for a third straight season. Which competition they end up in remains to be seen, as the club could qualify for any of the three.

This evening marks a century of games in the Villa dugout for Emery, who will be hoping to celebrate the milestone with a crucial victory.

Spurs: LWDWL

It was a familiar outcome at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday as Spurs fell to yet another league defeat.

Crystal Palace utterly dominated Ange Postecoglou’s side to inflict a twentieth loss of the season, their most in a single campaign during the Premier League era.

Tottenham can still mathematically finish as high as 13th position, but they seem destined to finish just above the relegation zone.

However, the narrative around their campaign can completely change next Wednesday. Spurs have the opportunity to qualify for Champions League football and simultaneously end their 17-year trophy drought by beating Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Last Meeting: Aston Villa 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur, FA Cup, 9th February 2025

In the last meeting, Aston Villa progressed into the fifth round of the FA Cup at Tottenham’s expense.

It was a blistering start from the hosts, as they took the lead inside the opening two minutes.

Neat footwork from Morgan Rogers created the space for the youngster to feed Jacob Ramsey. The 23-year-old’s left-footed shot squirmed through the grasp of Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky and into the back of the net. A moment to forget for the Czech stopper.

After sustained pressure from Villa, Tottenham captain Heung-min Son had a glorious opportunity to equalise. Mikey Moore found the unmarked South Korean inside the box, but Emiliano Martinez anticipated the sweeping effort and thwarted Son.

Midway through the second period, Unai Emery’s outfit deservedly doubled the advantage. Donyell Malen’s dangerous delivery across the box was desperately cleared by Pedro Porro. However, the ball fell at the feet of the alert Rogers and was smashed in from a few yards out.

Kinsky then kept his side in the tie shortly after with a strong save to deny Ramsey a second.

In the dying embers, Spurs managed to halve the deficit. Dejan Kulusevski’s searching cross was expertly prodded in by Mathys Tel, who netted his first goal for the Lilywhites. However, his moment of jubilation was short-lived as the full-time whistle echoed around Villa Park minutes later.

Villa eventually reached the semi-finals of the competition, where they were thrashed 3-0 by Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium.

Predicted Lineups

Aston Villa: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Onana; Asensio, Rogers, McGinn; Watkins.

Spurs: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bissouma, Bentancur, Sarr; Odobert, Richarlison, Son.

Who is the referee?

Peter Bankes will be the match official. Eddie Smart and Nick Greenhalgh will assist him, while Tim Robinson will be the fourth official. James Bell will be on VAR duty, and Dan Cook will assist him.

What TV channel is Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur on?

Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur will be available to watch on Sky Sports Premier League, Sky Go UK and NOW UK.

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off at Villa Park will be at 19:30 BST on Friday, 16th May 2025.

Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur Betting Odds

Aston Villa: 4/11

Draw: 9/2

Spurs: 6/1

Read – 📈 Power Rankings: Real Madrid crash out, Gala return

See more – Five of the biggest title collapses in European football as Ajax implode

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

There’s a London derby in the east of the capital this afternoon as West Ham United entertain Tottenham Hotspur.

West Ham are languishing in 17th position after conceding twice in the dying embers to eventually lose 3-2 to Brighton last weekend.

Evan Ferguson is back at Graham Potter’s disposal as he was unable to play against his parent club on Saturday. Midfield enforcer Edson Alvarez is struggling with a back issue while Crysencio Summerville is ruled out with a hamstring injury.

During midweek, Ange Postecoglou and his Spurs players beat Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final. With the reverse fixture being played on an artificial pitch in the Arctic Circle on Thursday night, Spurs are expected to make significant changes to their starting lineup.

James Maddison and Dominic Solanke both gingerly exited the field in Europe after picking up knocks and have been ruled out of action. Maddison has been sent for a scan to reveal the extent of the injury while Solanke is also being monitored. It is currently unclear whether either player will be able to feature in the second leg of the semi-final.

Lucas Bergvall is a definite absentee, with his first season in English football cut short. According to his manager, the midfielder sustained an ankle injury in an innocuous training incident that didn’t involve a teammate. The Swedish teenager was spotted wearing a protective boot while supporting his teammates from the sidelines on Thursday. Captain Heung-min Son is progressing well but has not recovered in time to be available this weekend.

West Ham vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news

Form

West Ham: LDLDL

West Ham are enduring a barren run of form which has seen them win none of their last seven matches.

Last time out, an encouraging display was ultimately meaningless as a late collapse allowed Brighton to claim all three points.

Goals from Mohammed Kudus and Tomas Soucek had given the Hammers a rare lead with seven minutes remaining.

But an 89th-minute equaliser from Kaoru Mitoma was followed by a stunning hit from Carlos Baleba in stoppage time. The score ended 3-2 on the South Coast with Graham Potter beaten by his former employers.

The Englishman was furious in his post-match press conference with the pressure and demands of the job taking its toll. West Ham fans have been voicing their concerns about the direction the club is going in. Last season, they finished ninth. Fast forward less than a year later and they sit in 17th position.

Tottenham: LWLLW

Tottenham’s success in Europe this season continued on Thursday as they beat Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in the Europa League semi-final.

It was a lightning start from the Lilywhites as Brennan Johnson headed home inside 38 seconds. James Maddison and Dominic Solanke added to the tally before Ulrik Saltnes grabbed a late consolation.

That goal for Bodo/Glimt gives them a lifeline heading into the second leg in Norway. Considering those circumstances, this afternoon’s match has very little bearing on how Tottenham’s season will be viewed. They have five defeats in their last six league games, with a win over relegated Southampton the anomaly in that run.

Last Meeting: Tottenham 4-1 West Ham, Premier League, 19th October 2024

Spurs came from behind to thrash West Ham in North London back in October.

The Hammers struck the first blow with both wingers combining for the opener. Jarrod Bowen skipped past Destiny Udogie before firing a searching cross towards the back post. Mohammed Kudus latched onto the pass and swept the ball into the back of the net with Pedro Porro unable to clear the effort on the line.

A superb solo strike from Dejan Kulusevski levelled matters going into the interval. The Swede cut inside onto his left foot before unleashing an unstoppable drive that hit both posts on its way in.

After the break, an eight-minute blitz from Tottenham saw them annihilate the West Ham defence. First, Udogie teed up Yves Bissouma with an inviting pass that allowed the former Brighton midfielder to slot past Alphonse Areola.

The momentum was firmly in Spurs’ favour and they doubled their advantage three minutes later. Heung-min Son’s tame shot was initially saved by Areola, but it bounced off Jean-Clair Todibo for an own goal.

A devastating counter-attack culminated with the hosts netting their fourth on the hour mark. Pape Matar Sarr released Son, who terrorised Todibo once again. Several stepovers from the South Korean befuddled the defender and the 32-year-old ruthlessly finished in style. This time the goal belonged to him which put his side in control.

In the closing stages, a melee broke out between the two teams, with Kudus at the heart of the commotion. A VAR check revealed the West Ham goal scorer had caught both Micky van de Ven and Sarr in the face and he was shown a straight red card for violent conduct.

Ange Postecoglou’s outfit played out the remainder of the contest in comfort and claimed three points against their rivals.

Predicted Lineups

West Ham: Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Paqueta, Soucek; Bowen, Fullkrug, Kudus.

Tottenham: Vicario; Gray, Danso, Davies, Spence; Sarr, Bissouma, Kulusevski; Odobert, Richarlison, Tel.

Who is the referee?

Michael Oliver will be the match official. Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring will assist him while Ruebyn Ricardo will be the fourth official. The VAR will be Darren England and he will be assisted by Peter Wright.

What TV channel is West Ham vs Tottenham on?

West Ham vs Tottenham will not be televised in the United Kingdom.

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off at the London Stadium will be at 14:00 BST on Sunday 4th May 2025.

West Ham vs Tottenham Betting Odds

West Ham: 1/1

Draw: 11/4

Tottenham: 5/2

Read – Harrydinho, Natasha Bedingfield at Burnley, referee Jamie Vardy

See more – David Beckham at 50: 10 defining career moments

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Tottenham Hotspur host Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tonight.

Ange Postecoglou’s side’s season rests on success in Europe, following a dismal domestic campaign. Spurs are aiming to win the club’s first silverware since 2008, while success would also secure Champions League qualification for next season.

The North Londoners impressed to edge past Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals and next face Norway’s first-ever European semi-finals.

Bodo/Glimt have made a habit of upsetting the odds in recent years. The Eliteserien champions eliminated Lazio on penalties to reach the last four.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Bodo/Glimt – Predicted lineup and team news

Spurs have a near full-strength squad to choose from, a contrast to the injury issues that have decimated their campaign. Son Heung-min is the major absentee with the Spurs skipper still dealing with a foot issue. Elsewhere, Radu Dragusin is a long-term absentee with an ACL injury, while January signing Antonin Kinsky was not registered in the European squad.

Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Dejan Kulusevski and Pedro Porro are expected to return after being handed rests at Liverpool on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur predicted lineup

Tottenham predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Bergvall, Maddison; Kulusevski, Solanke, Tel.

When is Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt?

Tottenham host Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday 1st May 2025. Kick-off in North London is 20:00 BST.

What TV channel is Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt?

In the UK, the game will be broadcast on TNT Sports 2. Subscribers can view the game on the Discovery+ app and website.

Read – Champions League Awards: Yamal the star in six-goal thriller

See more – Remembering when a 21-year-old Ronaldo Nazario won the Ballon d’Or

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Premier League champions-elect Liverpool welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Anfield this Sunday.

A point for the Reds would confirm them as the 2024/25 title winners with four games left to play.

Real Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold is poised to start his first game in over a month this afternoon. The academy product came off the bench last weekend to score the winner away to Leicester. He is expected to replace fellow right-back Conor Bradley, whose minutes are being managed.

Joe Gomez’s recovery is going according to plan, but the Englishman is still not training. Despite this, manager Arne Slot is confident the defender will appear again this campaign. Aside from that, the Dutch coach is operating with a fully fit squad.

Tottenham will be looking to prepare properly ahead of their Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt.

Captain Heung-min Son is still nursing a foot issue, but may return for the European tie on Thursday night. Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie and James Maddison’s minutes will be monitored with Ange Postecoglou not willing to risk his key players.

Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news

Form

Liverpool: LWLWW

Liverpool have the chance to lift the Premier League title at home this afternoon. Arsenal’s draw with Crystal Palace during midweek means the Reds have a 12-point gap at the top of the table with a game in hand.

Arne Slot’s side have only lost once at Anfield in the league this season. Nottingham Forest snatched a narrow victory back in September courtesy of a curling effort from Callum Hudson-Odoi. Since then, Liverpool have gone 14 matches unbeaten in this competition at Anfield.

This will be the club’s 20th top-flight league title, which would draw them level with rivals Manchester United as the most successful club in English football history.

Read – Liverpool predicted lineup and team news vs Tottenham

Tottenham: WDLWL

Spurs lost on home soil again on Monday night as Nottingham Forest prevailed in north London. A disastrous start from the Lilywhites allowed Elliot Anderson and Chris Wood to net inside the opening quarter of an hour.

Ange Postecoglou’s players had plenty of chances to regain a foothold in the match and Richarlison headed past Matz Sels in the closing stages. The Brazilian’s goal proved too little too late and they lost their 18th game of the league campaign. Only the current bottom three have recorded more defeats this term.

It was also the 15th time the Lilywhites have lost by a one-goal margin in the Premier League this season – an unprecedented feat in this competition.

Historically, Anfield has been a venue of misery for Tottenham. They haven’t triumphed there since 2011 when Rafael van der Vaart and Luka Modric struck for Spurs.

Read – Spurs predicted lineup and team news ahead of Liverpool clash

Last Meeting: Liverpool 4-0 Tottenham, Carabao Cup, 6th February 2024

A merciless display from the Reds helped them progress into the Carabao Cup final at Tottenham’s expense.

The visitors had a lead to protect with Lucas Bergvall’s late winner in the first leg giving them a one-goal advantage. However, Liverpool drew themselves level on aggregate just after the half hour mark.

Mohamed Salah delightfully used the outside of the foot to bend a dangerous cross into the middle. Spurs failed to clear the lines and the ball fell to Cody Gakpo, who lashed past Antonin Kinsky.

The young Czech goalkeeper was criticised for his poor handling, but atoned for his mistake with an acrobatic stop to deny Salah.

Within five minutes of the second period, Arne Slot’s side had turned the tie in their favour. Darwin Nunez beat Kinsky to the ball inside the box and was impeded by the Spurs stopper. In customary fashion, Salah dispatched the subsequent penalty with aplomb.

Tottenham were toothless and Liverpool were lethal. Both Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch clipped the post with thumping efforts before Dominik Szoboszlai gave the hosts a two-goal cushion. A flowing move dissected a disjointed defence and the Hungarian captain calmly slotted in the third.

It was then Tottenham’s turn to hit the woodwork as skipper Heung-min Son struck the crossbar from an acute angle.

Liverpool’s captain then secured the victory with a towering header. Virgil van Dijk was left unmarked from a corner and with Kinsky deserted, the 33-year-old nodded into an untended net.

The Carabao Cup holders would fail to retain their crown in the final as Newcastle United won 2-1 at Wembley Stadium.

Read – Liverpool refute Darwin Nunez clause claims

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off at Anfield will be at 16:30 BST on Sunday, 27th April 2025.

Who is the referee?

Tom Bramall will be the match official. Simon Bennett and Dan Robathan will assist him while Chris Kavanagh will be the fourth official. Craig Pawson will be on VAR duty and Darren Cann will be assist him.

Predicted Line-ups

Liverpool XI: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, Diaz.

Tottenham XI: Vicario, Spence, Danso, Davies, Udogie; Sarr, Bissouma, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Tel.

What TV channel will Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur be on?

Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Go UK and NOW UK are the places to watch Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. You can find out where the match is being broadcast in your location here.

Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur betting odds

Liverpool: 1/4

Draw: 5/1

Tottenham: 10/1

Read – Slot suggests Alexander-Arnold exit could benefit Bradley

See Also – The best Premier League footballers out of contract in 2026

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Tottenham Hotspur head to Liverpool this weekend aiming to delay the title celebrations of their opposition.

Liverpool will be crowned Premier League champions if the Reds avoid defeat to Spurs at Anfield.

Ange Postecoglou’s main focus will be on Europe, with Spurs set to face Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday night. However, the North Londoners will want to put in a good performance after back-to-back league defeats.

Spurs are 16th in the Premier League table, having lost 18 of their 33 fixtures. 10 of those defeats have come on the road.

Postecoglou will also want to make amends for their last visit to Anfield. Spurs were thrashed 4-0 on Merseyside in February in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

Tottenham Hotspur XI vs Liverpool – Predicted lineup and team news

Tottenham team news

Ange Postecoglou’s selection will offer intrigue as the Australian plans ahead for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final. Postecoglou will want to find the balance between momentum and rest.

Spurs are without captain Son Heung-min, who has a foot issue, and ACL victim Radu Dragusin. It’s largely a full pool of talent to choose from otherwise, a contrast to the club’s injury-decimated campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur predicted lineup

Tottenham predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Danso, Udogie; Bissouma, Bergvall, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Odobert.

When is Liverpool vs Tottenham?

Liverpool host Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday 27th April 2025. Kick-off at Anfield is 16:30 BST.

What TV channel is Liverpool vs Tottenham on?

The match will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League in the UK.

Read – Slot suggests Alexander-Arnold exit could benefit Bradley

See more – The best Premier League footballers out of contract in 2026

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Tottenham Hotspur host Eintracht Frankfurt in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie tonight.

Europe has become win-or-bust for Ange Postecoglou, both in the context of the season and perhaps his Spurs tenure. With the North Londoners struggling in the Premier League, the pressure is on to end the campaign on a high.

Success in the Europa League would end a 17-year wait for a major trophy and secure Champions League football for next season. It’s a huge prize for Postecoglou to chase.

Spurs host a Frankfurt side who are third in the Bundesliga table but have endured a dip in form. The Germans – who won this competition in 2022 – have lost four of their last six in the league.

Tottenham vs Eintracht Frankfurt – Predicted lineup and team news

Tottenham team news

Dejan Kulusevski and Kevin Danso have been ruled out for Spurs but are an outside chance to return for the second leg. Rodrigo Bentancur is back from his European suspension, though Radu Dragusin is a definite absentee. The latter is out for the campaign with an ACL tear.

Richarlison returned from injury at the weekend to boost a forward line depleted by Timo Werner’s absence. The German was not registered for the latter stages of the Europa League.

Tottenham Predicted Lineup

Tottenham predicted XI: Vicario; Spence, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bergvall, Bentancur, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, Son.

When is Tottenham vs Eintracht Frankfurt?

Kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will be at 20:00 BST on Thursday 10th April 2025.

What TV channel is Tottenham vs Frankfurt on?

Tottenham vs Frankfurt will be available to watch on TNT Sports 3, TNT Sports Ultimate and Discovery+.

Read – Champions League Awards: Kvaradona and Bend it like Rice!

See more – Five of the best Champions League free-kicks ever

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur do battle tonight in a Premier League London Derby at Stamford Bridge.

There’s often no lack of incident when these teams meet, with plenty of needle between the capital neighbours. Ahead of tonight’s tie, we’ve selected our Chelsea and Tottenham Combined XI from the two squads.

Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur – Combined XI

Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario – Tottenham

Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation has been farcical with the Blues adding an eighth goalkeeper to their ranks with the arrival of teenager Mike Penders from Genk in August. Despite that, none of the current options have convinced, with Enzo Maresca still deciding between the error-prone Robert Sanchez and unproven Filip Jorgensen.

Spurs ‘keeper Guglielmo Vicario has some doubters when it comes to command of his box but the Italian is a quaity shot-stopper. He leads the Premier League for xG prevented (4.6) despite missing over two months with an ankle injury.

Right-back: Reece James – Chelsea

Chelsea’s captain celebrated a first England goal during the break and what a goal. A fantastic free-kick from James was a reminder of the talent that injuries have so badly prevented from being on show regularly in recent seasons. When fit, he’s one of the best in the business.

Centre-back: Cristian Romero – Tottenham

Spurs’ struggles this season have been in large part due to the absence of key figures. Cristian Romero’s recurring issues have been problematic with the centre-back a crucial part of the plan in North London. The 26-year-old is commanding, aggressive and a real leader. He’s been a pivotal part of Argentina’s recent international success.

Centre-back: Micky Van de Ven – Tottenham

Like Romero, Van de Ven has not taken to the pitch nearly enough this season. The Dutch defender was a revelation in his debut campaign, earning Tottenham’s Player of the Season award in 2023/24. There’s arguably no defender in Europe with his blend of speed and strength.

Left-back: Marc Cucurella – Chelsea

From forgotten flop to mainstay, Marc Cucurella has had some turnaround at Chelsea. The left-back shone during last season’s run-in before starring as Spain won Euro 2024 in the summer, earning inclusion in the Team of the Tournament. He’s remained integral under Enzo Maresca, inverting into midfield alongside displays of the drive that persuaded Chelsea to bring him in from Brighton in the first place.

Midfield: Moises Caicedo – Chelsea

Moises Caicedo is another big-money buy who took time to settle but he’s flourishing now. The Ecuadorian’s energy and tenacious defensive work have impressed this season, with Caicedo, arguably, Chelsea’s Player of the Season. He ranks among the Premier League’s top players for passes into the final third (3rd), tackles won (7th), dribblers tackled (7th), interceptions (8th) and percentage of aerial duels won (8th) this season. So consistent.

Midfield: Enzo Fernandez – Chelsea

Like many of Chelsea’s recent signings, Enzo Fernandez has had to handle the weight of an inflated price tag. The World Cup winner has grown in stature, however, leading the Premier League for chances created in March. During the international break, he was outstanding as Argentina thrashed Brazil 4-1 to secure World Cup qualification.

Midfield: James Maddison – Tottenham

It feels like James Maddison must continually prove a point at the moment. Whether it’s well-documented comments from pundits or omissions from the England squad, Maddison is yet to convince all. That said, the 28-year-old is a match-winner at his best and has a healthy return of 11 goals and seven assists in a struggling side this season. He’s a player Ange Postecoglou must coax more from consistently. The talent is there.

Right-wing: Cole Palmer – Chelsea

A revelation for Chelsea.

Cole Palmer’s meteoric rise has seen him emerge as a poster boy of the Premier League.

The PFA Young Player of the Year last season after a stunning debut campaign, where

he had the most goal involvements (33) of any player in the division.

Despite a recent dip, Palmer has again been excellent this time around. He’s capable of the utterly unpredictable and a throwback to mavericks of a bygone era.

Left-wing: Heung-min Son – Tottenham

Heung-min Son might be reaching the latter end of his career but the South Korean will be remembered as a Spurs icon. Son has stayed with Spurs for a decade, despite a talent that should have won the silverware that has been elusive in North London.

He’s returned 16 goals and assists in 21 league starts this season and is on course to breach 20 in a campaign for the sixth time.

Forward: Dominic Solanke – Tottenham

A toss-up between Chelsea forwards past and present. Dominic Solanke has taken a long road back to one of London’s leading clubs, with the highly-regarded Chelsea academy graduate failing to make the first-team grade in West London or at Liverpool before thriving at Bournemouth. He became Tottenham’s record signing last summer and has 11 goals and eight assists for the campaign.

Solanke’s refinement sees him edge out Nicolas Jackson, who despite real potential can combine the sublime with the ridiculous.

Read – Chelsea considering move for Strasbourg striker

See more – Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Chelsea entertain Tottenham Hotspur this evening in a fixture that always promises tension, chaos and melodrama.

The Blues are competing for the Champions League places, with many of their close competitors tasting victory over the past few days.

Enzo Maresca’s options have been bolstered by the availability of attacking trio Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke. Palmer missed the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal prior to the international break through a combination of illness and a hamstring issue.

Chelsea have been without the services of Jackson and Madueke for a number of weeks due to muscular injuries. However, Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia is expected to miss out after a recent setback in his recovery.

Tottenham will be attempting to win at Stamford Bridge for only the second time in three decades tonight.

Ange Postecoglou revealed that Kevin Danso and Dejan Kulusevski won’t be ready to play for a couple more weeks. The pair are doubtful for the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final against Frankfurt next week.

Richarlison has been plagued by injury this season, but he has recently returned to light training. The short trip to West London comes too soon for the Brazilian, with the weekend’s action considered a more appropriate time to re-implement the striker into the squad.

Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news

Form

Chelsea: WWWWL

The Blues fell to a London derby defeat last time out, as Arsenal narrowly beat them in the capital.

Mikel Merino’s header was the difference at the Emirates Stadium with Chelsea’s performance lacking inspiration.

Chelsea have an important few months ahead domestically and in Europe.

Victories for Newcastle and Manchester City on Wednesday saw them overtake the West Londoners in the table, who have the opportunity to reclaim fourth spot with a win tonight.

Next midweek, they travel to Poland to face Legia Warszawa in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter-final.

Tottenham: LLDWL

Prior to the international break, Spurs lost for the fifteenth time in the Premier League this season, with Fulham conquering them on this occasion.

It was an evenly-contested affair until Rodrigo Muniz broke the deadlock with less than a quarter of an hour remaining. Former Spurs player Ryan Sessegnon then compounded their misery with a sumptuous second.

That result left Spurs in 14th position and after recent results, the Lilywhites are closer to the relegation zone than the top four.

However, their primary focus has shifted to their Europa League exploits. A two-legged tie with Frankfurt is on the horizon with a place in the final four at stake.

Winning that competition will put an end to Tottenham’s trophy drought while simultaneously earning them a place in the Champions League next season.

Last Meeting: Tottenham 3-4 Chelsea, Premier League, 8th December 2024

Tottenham’s capitulation in the last meeting allowed Chelsea to complete a memorable comeback over their London rivals.

Ange Postecoglou’s side commenced the contest with attacking impetus and were 2-0 up inside the opening 11 minutes.

Dominic Solanke converted Brennan Johnson’s cross before Dejan Kulusevski drilled into the bottom corner from range.

Comically, both goals came as a result of slips from left-back Marc Cucurella. The European Championship winner changed his footwear and Chelsea’s fortunes soon changed.

Jadon Sancho halved the deficit almost instantly with a tremendous solo effort. The Manchester United loanee skipped inside before firing a strike beyond the substantial reach of Fraser Forster.

In a key flashpoint, Moises Caicedo was perhaps fortunate to escape with only a yellow card for a robust challenge on Pape Matar Sarr.

On the hour mark, a lapse in judgement from Yves Bissouma saw the Malian impede Caicedo inside the box. Cole Palmer stepped up to take the spot-kick and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Spurs looked despondent and the game was heading in only one direction. The hosts succumbed to the pressure when Enzo Fernandez blasted in a half-volley to send the travelling support into raptures.

Ange Postecoglou’s evening went from bad to worse when Sarr petulantly kicked Palmer in the penalty area. The Englishman relished the responsibility once again and sent an audacious chip down the middle. It was executed with an unerring composure that the midfielder has become synonymous with.

Spurs skipper Heung-min Son grabbed a consolation deep into stoppage time, but it couldn’t stop Chelsea from claiming the bragging rights. A seven-goal thriller in North London and a fifth successive victory for the visitors.

Predicted Lineups

Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto,; Jackson.

Tottenham: Vicario; Spence, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Bergvall, Maddison; Odobert, Solanke, Son.

Who is the referee?

Craig Pawson will be the match official. Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring will assist him while Rob Jones will be the fourth official. The VAR will be Jarred Gillett and he will be assisted by Craig Taylor.

What TV channel is Chelsea vs Tottenham on?

Tonight’s London Derby will be televised on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Go UK and NOW UK.

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge will be at 20:00 GMT on Thursday 3rd April 2025.

Chelsea vs Tottenham Match Odds

Chelsea: 13/20

Draw: 18/5

Tottenham: 18/5

Read – The 10 best right-wingers in the world right now

See more – Six infamous bust-ups between teammates

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Tottenham Hotspur reportedly rejected approaches from Premier League rivals for Dejan Kulusevski in the January transfer window.

Kulusevski has been a positive performer in an otherwise difficult season for the North Londoners. The Sweden international has 10 goals and nine assists across all competitions for Ange Postecoglou’s side.

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Spurs rejected approaches from AC Milan and other Premier League clubs in the January transfer window. Milan expressed interest in bringing the former Juventus player back to Serie A but saw their advances rebuffed by the Spurs hierarchy.

Milan are continuing to monitor Kulusevski. Fabio Paratici, who signed Kulusevski during his time as sporting director at Juventus and Spurs, is a leading candidate to take the same role at the San Siro.

Should that materialise and Spurs miss out on Champions League qualification, a move for Kulusevski will be pursued. Spurs are currently 14th in the Premier League table but could secure Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League. The North Londoners face Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals next month.

Spurs signed Kulusevski on an initial loan deal in January 2022 before making the move permanent for a fee of €35m (£29.2m). According to the report, the Premier League side will not consider bids below €50m (£42m) for the 24-year-old.

Read – The 10 best left-backs in the world right now

See more – Six top-class strikers set for big summer transfers

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media: