Ange Postecoglou has swiftly brought back an air of positivity to Tottenham following a minor setback in November, with the team looking to end 2023 with a renewed sense of optimism.
Despite dealing with numerous absences, Tottenham is only six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool as they gear up for a less packed January schedule.
The beginning of their new year kicks off with an FA Cup third-round clash at home against Burnley on Friday night. While Spurs comfortably defeated Burnley in their initial encounter in August, Vincent Kompany’s side, despite appearing destined for relegation, has shown glimpses of resilience in recent weeks.
Once again, Ange will have to manage without several key players for Friday’s cup tie, including Pape Matar Sarr and Son Heung-min. Here’s a projection of Spurs’ starting lineup for Burnley’s visit.
Goalkeeper:
Guglielmo Vicario – Despite a recent dry spell in clean sheets, the Italy international is expected to have the opportunity to keep Burnley at bay on Friday, with Ange likely to field a strong starting XI.
Right-back:
Pedro Porro – The Spaniard has been a standout performer among Premier League full-backs this season, maintaining a consistent presence in the starting lineup.
Centre-backs:
Emerson Royal – Royal is expected to retain his place ahead of Eric Dier until Cristian Romero’s return to action.
Ben Davies – While some may advocate for young Alfie Dorrington, Davies has been a reliable and steady presence in Micky van de Ven’s absence.
Left-back:
Destiny Udogie – The dynamic and versatile full-back showcased his best form in the victory over Bournemouth.
Defensive Midfielder:
Oliver Skipp – With the suspended Yves Bissouma participating in AFCON, Skipp or Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg are likely to vie for the holding role in midfield. Skipp’s energy and tenacity off the ball make him a valuable asset.
Central Midfielders:
Rodrigo Bentancur – The return of the Uruguayan is pivotal in the absence of Sarr at AFCON, with Bentancur playing a part in the Senegalese international’s goal in the previous fixture.
Giovani Lo Celso – The Argentine delivered his most impressive performance in a Spurs shirt since his debut season and is a solid choice to continue in midfield.
Right Winger:
Dejan Kulusevski – Spurs managed to secure a victory in Kulusevski’s absence on New Year’s Eve, but his comeback will undoubtedly be a welcome addition for this cup encounter.
Striker:
Richarlison – With Son absent due to the Asia Cup, Tottenham will rely on Richarlison to step up his goal-scoring efficiency. Fortunately, the Brazilian is currently in a prolific form.
Left Winger:
Brennan Johnson – While Johnson has excelled mainly on the right, Ange’s selection challenges mean the Welshman will operate on the opposite flank against Burnley, collaborating with Udogie.