Ajax vs Tottenham predictions: Tottenham line-up

Tottenham lost but with both Arsenal and Manchester United being held to draws, Mauricio Pochettino’s place in the top four is all but confirmed. However, they have a tough test in the form of Ajax, especially as the home side have a 1-0 away goal lead.

That means that no matter what happens, Tottenham have to make sure that they net atleast one goal. But that will be easier said than done, as the last person to do that in the Champions League was Cristiano Ronaldo.

It shows just how tough Ajax can be and why Tottenham will have to be at their very best. Despite injuries and other issues, Pochettino should have a squad worthy of facing the Dutch giants.

Team News

If Tottenham makes the Champions League finals, Harry Kane might make the cut (Guardian). However, Jan Vertonghen walked off groggy in the first-leg and couldn’t play against Bournemouth. The risk is far greater than the reward and the Belgian should be rested.

Barring that, Pochettino still has Erik Lamela, Harry Winks and Serge Aurier out with long-term injuries.

Probable Tottenham XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Manager: Mauricio Pochettino

Hugo Lloris (GK)

Was not at his best against Ajax and the Frenchman needs to improve, which he did to some extent against Bournemouth.

Kieran Trippier (RB)

He has the skill and the talent to play on the biggest stage but Trippier has yet to show that this season.

Davinson Sanchez (CB)

The young Colombian has done well and with Vertonghen still not 100%, Sanchez needs to start.

Toby Alderweireld (CB)

With Vertonghen still not a 100%, it leaves the club with just two centre-backs in the squad. Alderweireld is a sure starter.

Danny Rose (LB)

He has started the last five games in a row, including the last two against Ajax and Bournemouth.

Dele Alli (CM)

With Tottenham chasing after a win in the second-leg, they need their creative minds on the field and Alli is exactly that.

Moussa Sissoko (CM)

One of the few bright lights for Tottenham in the first-leg, the winger-turned midfielder should start.

Christian Eriksen (CM)

The former Ajax man wasn’t at his best in the first-leg and will have a lot to prove in the second.

Son Heung-min (RW)

Unable to play in the first-leg, if Tottenham are to win, Son has to start against Ajax.

Lucas Moura (LW)

Among the club’s best players this season, Moura needs to keep his place if Spurs are to have a chance of winning.

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Fernando Llorente (CF)

The only reliable striker that Tottenham have at their disposal, Llorente should make the cut.