Tottenham head to Turf Moor this weekend with pressure still simmering on Thomas Frank, and we have now attempted to predict how the Dane could line up.
Thomas Frank is expected to take charge of the Burnley game this weekend, having bought himself some much-needed respite following media speculation about his job with a win over Borussia Dortmund in midweek.
The Dane must now pull the same trick from up his sleeve when he travels to face 19th-placed Burnley in the Premier League.
The last time Spurs faced a relegation-threatened side, it ended in defeat as London rivals West Ham United secured a 2-1 victory over Frank’s side.
With three vital points on the line this weekend, we have now attempted to predict how Thomas Frank could set up his team.
Tottenham vs Burnley predicted XI
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: The Italian managed to secure a much-needed clean sheet last time out against Borussia Dortmund, and Frank will be desperate for another shut-out.
Right-back – Pedro Porro: The Spaniard was player of the match in the Champions League win over Dortmund, underlining just how crucial he is at his best, and Frank will be hoping for more of the same.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero: The Tottenham captain led by example in the Champions League by opening the scoring after meeting Wilson Odobert’s cross, and he is enjoying a scoring run that could yet continue.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: Kevin Danso took his spot last time out as van de Ven was suspended in the Champions League, and he is expected to return to the starting XI against Burnley.
Left-back – Djed Spence: The full-back put in an energetic display against Dortmund, often operating like a winger. Ben Davies is injured and, despite Destiny Udogie being fit, we expect Frank to turn to Spence.
Pivot midfielder – Archie Gray: The youngster appears to have won Frank’s trust and is expected to start once again.
Pivot midfielder – Yves Bissouma: The Malian looked to be out of favour, but his solid cameo against West Ham United suggested otherwise. With Joao Palhinha a doubt and Lucas Bergvall and Rodrigo Bentancur injured, Bissouma could come in.
Attacking midfielder – Conor Gallagher: The midfielder missed out against Dortmund as he is not registered for the Champions League, but he is expected to return to the Tottenham starting XI in a more advanced role. Xavi’s foot injury may require a rest from the start.
Right winger – Wilson Odobert: Odobert was outstanding against Dortmund, and the numbers backed up his performance. With Mohammed Kudus still out, the Frenchman is expected to start on the right.
Striker – Dominic Solanke: He scored a goal in the Champions League, and his influence on Spurs’ attack is clear through his link-up play and ability to bring others into the game.
Left winger – Mathys Tel: It has been a hectic start to life in a Tottenham shirt for Tel, who was recently removed from the Champions League squad after only just being added. Despite his frustration, we expect Frank to hand him a start.