Tottenham will kick off their 2016-2017 Premier League campaign on Saturday against Everton at Goodison Park. Tottenham fans were left frustrated last year as a winless streak of 4 games at the end of the season not only ended their title ambitions but also saw them finish below their North London rivals. However one can’t deny the fact that Pochettino and his boys had a stellar season, where they not only proved that they can compete with the big boys but can also defeat them.
This season Pochettino will have to contend with the domestic season along with the pressure of Champions League. The Argentine has done well this summer to bring in Victor Wanyama and Vincent Janssen. Both the players will give quality cover for the first team players and provide that valuable squad depth. A fast start will be crucial to Tottenham’s title ambition as an average run of results in the early stages of last season proved costly in the end. The preseason didn’t prove to be too fruitful for Spurs as a tour to Australia ended with two defeats, however, a final warm-up game against Inter Milan did lead to a change of fortunes. Here is the predicted Tottenham starting XI that Pochettino might opt for on Saturday.
Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
Lloris has been in excellent form for Tottenham since making the move to London from France. Lloris was part of the French national squad that reached the final of the European Championship and should start on Saturday against Everton.
Defenders: Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen and Rose
There were doubts regarding the fitness of Vertonghen throughout the summer but Pochettino confirmed this week that the Belgian will be fit to start against Everton. Vertonghen will start in central defense alongside Alderweireld. Kyle Walker was excellent last season and should slot in at right-back with Danny Rose in at left-back. Both the full-backs were extremely solid last season.
Midfielders: Dier, Wanyama, Lamela, Alli and Eriksen
Summer signing Wanyama will make his Premier League debut on Sunday for Tottenham, he will start in central midfield alongside Eric Dier. The English international has been in scintillating form for club and country for the past year. Dele Alli will start in that number 10 role from where he was so effective last season. The youngster endured a disappointing European Championship and therefore will be itching to get back on the field. He will be flanked by Lamela on the right and Eriksen on the left.
Striker: Harry Kane
Although Vincent Janssen was brought in this summer, it is unlikely that the Dutchman will pip Kane to the starting spot. Kane was again the player of the season for Tottenham last season and will be crucial to Tottenham attacking play this season as well.