Tottenham return to the Champions League this week as Thomas Frank prepares to lead his side out in Europe for the first time. Let’s now take a look at our predicted Tottenham XI to face Villarreal.
Thomas Frank would have been pleased with the reaction from his Tottenham Hotspur players, who delivered a convincing 3-0 victory against West Ham United at the London Stadium in the Premier League, a strong response after the disappointment of losing to Bournemouth in matchweek three.
Attention now turns to European football as Spurs make their long-awaited return to the Champions League following a two-year absence, and the first challenge sees Villarreal arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
For Frank, this tie marks his debut in Europe’s elite competition, and given the weight of the occasion, he will be eager for his side to put down a marker in front of the home crowd. Let us now see how Thomas Frank could line up this midweek.
Predicted Tottenham XI vs Villarreal in the Champions League
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: The Italian has been almost flawless under Thomas Frank this season, conceding only once while keeping three clean sheets, and he is certain to continue between the posts.
Right-back – Pedro Porro: The Spaniard produced an improved display when up against Lucas Paqueta, Crysencio Summerville and Diouf down Tottenham’s right, and while Djed Spence is an option, we do not expect Frank to rotate here.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero: Fresh from an assist and a clean sheet against West Ham, Romero has quietly been one of Spurs’ most consistent performers, and given the importance of starting with a win, we expect the Argentine to anchor the backline again.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: Tottenham’s defensive partnership looks settled, and van de Ven, who also found the net last time out, should once again be paired with Romero in central defence.
Left-back – Destiny Udogie: The Italian has been steadily building up his fitness with substitute appearances and looks ready to return from the off in this European tie.
Pivot midfielder – Joao Palhinha: Since making the move to north London, the Portuguese international has been commanding in midfield, and Frank is unlikely to leave him out of such a crucial encounter.
Pivot midfielder – Rodrigo Bentancur: Lucas Bergvall impressed when handed a start against West Ham, but we expect Bentancur to be restored to the line-up to bring some control and experience in midfield.
Centre-midfielder – Xavi Simons: Deployed from the left in the Premier League last time, Simons showed flashes of his quality, but in this tie against Villarreal, he could take up the number ten role on his Spurs European debut.
Right midfielder – Mohammed Kudus: The Ghana international has featured in every Tottenham game this season and continues to be a vital outlet, so it is highly likely that Frank sticks with him again.
Striker – Richarlison: With Mathys Tel handed a chance in the Premier League but unavailable for the Champions League squad, Richarlison is set to lead the line and will look to seize his opportunity under the European spotlight.
Left-midfielder – Brennan Johnson: Having been rested against the Hammers, Johnson is well placed to return on the left, particularly with Simons expected to shift centrally.