After the demoralising defeat at Anfield, Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham Hotspur side are back in action when they resume their European journey on Thursday. In the absence of a couple of first team players, Pochettino’s side found it hard to stop the wrath of a Liverpool side which is just getting back to form and they will hope to put in a better performance this week to try and take an advantage in the first leg of the Round of 32 tie in the Europa League. The Spurs were drawn with Belgian outfit KAA Gent in the first knockout round of the competition. They will travel to the Ghelamco Arena for this tie and are expected to give a tough fight on the night. Here is the predicted lineup that Pochettino might field for this clash:
Team News:
The manager will still be without the services of Jan Vertonghen, Eric Lamela and Danny Rose, all of whom are injured. There are no new injuries to worry about at Kevin NKoudou remains the only other absentee for this tie.
Expected lineup (4-2-3-1):
Hugo Lloris:
The first choice shot-stopper for the Spurs, Lloris, is one of the best in his position in Europe and will hope to have a comfortable game.
Kyle Walker:
The English international has been one of the most consistent players for the Spurs this season and should keep his place in the side for this tie.
Toby Alderweireld:
The senior defender in the squad, Alderweireld, had a decent night at Anfield but he will be up against the likes of Falcao in this game.
Eric Dier:
The versatile Englishman has been deputizing at centre-back in the absence of Vertonghen and is expected to do so for this game.
Ben Davies:
Though tormented by Sadio Mane at Anfield, Davies is a decent defender and he should get another shot on this trip to Belgium.
Victor Wanyama:
The former Southampton man is an important part of the squad for Pochettino and is expected to start this Europa League tie in the midfield for the Spurs.
Mousa Dembele:
The first-choice midfield partner for Wanyama, Dembele, should start this game, to try and clinch an advantage away from home.
Christian Eriksen:
Had a dull game at the weekend but has the ability to make things happen which the Spurs might need in this game.
Dele Alli:
The English attacker has been one of the most effective players for Pochettino this season and he should keep his place on the side on the night.
Moussa Sissoko:
Though not in the best of the form, Sissoko is still in the plans of the manager and he will be given yet another chance to prove himself against Gent.
Harry Kane:
The biggest goal scoring threat for the Spurs in this game, Kane, should have a decent night if the Spurs are to walk away with an advantage.