Tottenham Hotspur are looking to bounce back in Europe following a disappointing home defeat against Aston Villa, as Thomas Frank prepares his side for a testing trip to France against AS Monaco. Let’s take a look at our predicted Tottenham XI to face AS Monaco.
Tottenham Hotspur’s poor home form continues, with Frank’s men having suffered yet another defeat on home turf against Aston Villa.
Attention, however, now turns to continental affairs, with Spurs resuming their UEFA Champions League league phase campaign on matchday three.
An away trip to AS Monaco in France is on the agenda, and Thomas Frank will be hoping his players can rise to the occasion and respond strongly following their weekend setback.
We have now attempted to predict how Frank could set up his team for this crucial fixture.
Predicted Tottenham XI vs Monaco
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: The Italian conceded two goals at the weekend, and questions will continue to be asked about his shot-stopping from range, but we expect Frank to stick with one of his leaders.
Right-back – Pedro Porro: Tottenham are a little short in defence, making rotation almost impossible at the back, so Porro should keep his spot.
Centre-back – Kevin Danso: It remains touch and go with Cristian Romero, and that could see Danso continue at centre-back following his start against Aston Villa.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: The Dutchman has been ever-present at the back in both Champions League and Premier League fixtures this season, and we expect Frank to stick with him, given the manager’s lack of options.
Left-back – Djed Spence: Destiny Udogie missed out against Villa because of an irritation to his knee, and if he is not fit for Wednesday’s clash, Spence should continue on the left.
Pivot midfielder – Joao Palhinha: The Portuguese midfielder grabbed an assist against Villa but did little to prevent their two long-range efforts. He has been solid this season and should keep his place as one of the pivots.
Centre midfielder – Lucas Bergvall: Frank could go with more energy and attacking intent given Spurs’ lack of effort up top, and that could see Bergvall come in for Rodrigo Bentancur, bringing more running and dynamism.
Centre midfielder – Pape Matar Sarr: Playing Xavi Simons down the middle for Tottenham has not exactly gone to plan in recent weeks, and that could mark the return of Sarr, who has goals in his game.
Right winger – Mohammed Kudus: It was not the best of games from Kudus last time out, and Frank will be hoping it was just a blip, as he will need the Ghana international back to his best against Monaco.
Striker – Richarlison: Mathys Tel failed to impress last time out against Aston Villa and has not been registered in Frank’s Champions League squad, leaving Richarlison and Mauni as his options. We expect the Brazil international to get the nod.
Left winger – Brennan Johnson: The Welshman has had to bide his time on the bench, and those who have played ahead of him have yet to make any reasonable impact, so Johnson could return from the left.