Pochettino’s defensive headache

Tottenham have garnered an unexpected reputation as one of the strongest defensive sides in the Premier League.

For two seasons, Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen have ensured Spurs finished the season with the least goals against.

When Alderweireld pulled up against Real Madrid, the Belgian brick wall was severely damaged.

Vertonghen was however able to develop a solid partnership with Davinson Sanchez during a period that actually saw an upward turn in form for Tottenham.

However, Mauricio Pochettino faces a very real problem in the build up to this weekend.

Vertonghen has been absent this week following a training injury and looks unlikely to be able to return against Huddersfield on Saturday.

With Alderweireld still not fit, there is a very large gap in Pochettino’s line up.

Sanchez has performed well since arriving in the summer, but it has to be said he has benefited from having Vertonghen’s experience alongside him.

Spurs’ other defensive options, Eric Dier and Juan Foyth, played together on Tuesday night and neither appeared confident.

They may well be called upon this weekend for a game that Spurs will be expected to win, defensive frailty will not be acceptable.

Will Pochettino place his trust in Sanchez to lead his defensive line?