Sky Sports’ Michael Bridge believes that there may be a surprise in store for Tottenham fans when Roberto De Zerbi names his first starting eleven on Sunday.
There has been plenty of debate among Spurs fans regarding De Zerbi’s starting eleven against Sunderland, with the supporters waiting to see how Tottenham will shape up under the Italian coach.
It remains to be seen if the new Spurs boss decides to be brave and positive or to opt for a more pragmatic approach, given the Lilywhites’ current situation.
The former Brighton head coach has been backed to make a surprising midfield call at the Stadium of Light.
Joao Palhinha could start for Tottenham against Sunderland
While Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall look likely to make the starting eleven if they are both passed fit, the big question is who De Zerbi will play alongside the two youngsters.
Michael Bridge has suggested that, rather than going for the youthful experience of Pape Sarr, the new Tottenham boss could rely on the defensive insurance and experience of Joao Palhinha.
The journalist said on Sky Sports: “Lucas Bergvall could benefit from De Zerbi’s appointment, with the pair pictured together on several occasions during training, so the Sweden international could prove to be a key player for the ex-Marseille boss.
“I think he will start alongside fellow teenager Archie Gray, who was the best player under Tudor by some distance. But it would not surprise me if De Zerbi opts for the bite and experience of Joao Palhinha.
“The Bayern Munich loanee, who ranks top for most tackles in the Premier League this season, was described earlier in the season as a no-brainer permanent signing, but has had a strange last few months. I think De Zerbi will start Gray and Bergvall in midfield, so next is the front four in attack to complete his predicted 4-2-3-1 set-up.”
Michael Bridge makes Xavi Simons prediction under Roberto De Zerbi
Xavi Simons had shown signs of having adapted to Premier League football in Thomas Frank’s final couple of months in charge.
The Dutchman was not a regular in the starting lineup under Igor Tudor, but Bridge expects him to have a key role under De Zerbi.
He added: “Spurs are lacking creativity, and with Dejan Kulusevski expected to miss the rest of the season and James Maddison still recovering from his ACL injury, Simons will have a huge role under De Zerbi.”
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