Mauricio Pochettino will welcome Manchester United this Sunday at White Hart Lane where he will be looking to take the revenge of his previous fixture where they faced an unlucky defeat through that bitter own goal. The league has taken a complete ‘U’ turn since, as the side who finished their campaign sitting on the 14th spot on the table last year are now competing for the title and Tottenham who finished 5th, are battling to compete for the same honour.
Pochettino has established himself as one of the best in terms of tactics and Tottenham have been a completely different side since then. And at the other hand, United have Louis Van Gaal whose philosophy is taking United to a completely different direction. After the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, United have been struggling a lot to establish themselves as one of the best. They have a tough task ahead, a task to finish in the top 4. In their pursuit, Tottenham will be a big hurdle as they have their own ambitions.
Let us take a look at the best possible combined lineup-
FORMATION: 4-1-3-2
David De Gea-
The Spanish star has been performing in his best form recently. In his 27 games, he has managed to keep 12 clean sheets and averages at least 3 saves per game. Hugo Lloris is also a tough contender but David De Gea is the winner here.
Kyle Walker-
There is no doubt that United is struggling in the full back position as this is the place where United needs more practice. Kyle Walker is an easy and the only deserved candidate who average at least 7 defensive actions per game.
Chris Smalling-
Chris Smalling offers a calmness and reassurance in defence. This player has been an outstanding performer for his side and deserve a place in this lineup. He has made 80 interceptions, 158 clearances and 17 blocks this season. He has been an absolute wall at the back for this struggling United’s team.
Toby Alderweireld-
The Belgian has appeared 32 times for his side this season also has scored 3 goals for the club. With 2 assists at his name this defender possesses an average passing accuracy of 80% and averages 10 defensive actions per game. What about that?
Danny Rose-
Darmian ? Nah. Rose deserves this position more than anyone. With 19 appearances to his name, this 25-year-old is capable of making strong and pacey forward runs. Have scored 1 goal for his club and averages 6 defensive actions per game.
Eric Dier-
The best defensive midfielder so far in this season without any doubt. Played almost every game for his side in the league and established himself as one of the best. A great tackler is what he is who can easily stop the runs of his opposition.
Juan Mata-
The contribution of this Spanish star has been astonishing. So far he has bagged 5 goals for his team and has been a real standout performer. He averages a passing accuracy of 89% and has the ability to create an open run for the striker through a phenomenal through ball.
Christian Eriksen-
Eriksen has been absolutely stunning for his side. He averages 82% of passing accuracy and has scored 6 goals for his team this season. He has been an unsung hero for his team.
Dele Alli-
Alli has taken the Premier League by storm by his amazing performance this season. The teenage midfielder has been absolutely fantastic and adapted the manager’s playing style very quickly. No wonder, he can be a top quality midfielder.
Anthony Martial-
This 20-year-old young boy is the most expensive teenager in footballing history and he has shown the world why he is worth the money United paid for him. Has been named the man of the match 2 times this season, he can form a lethal partnership with his fellow striker Harry Kane.
Harry Kane-
No one can argue over him for this position. Harry Kane now has 22 league goals this season, the most by a Spurs player since Gary Lineker (28) in 1991/92. Imagine a duo, Harry Kane and Anthony Martial backed by Dele Alli, Mata and Eriksen.