As the football weekend gears up, anticipation runs high for the commencement of the FA Cup third round. This exciting stage of the competition sees the entry of Premier League and Championship sides, with Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham set to clash with Burnley at home on Friday evening.
After bowing out of the Carabao Cup in the initial phase in late August, Spurs are eager to avoid an early exit as they aim to secure a spot at Wembley come May. However, with a spate of injuries and international commitments limiting Postecoglou’s options, the 58-year-old faces a challenging task in selecting his Tottenham XI for the 8pm kick-off in north London.
Our Tottenham Hotspur reporters at football.london have suggested their own lineup for the clash against Vincent Kompany’s Clarets, considering the delicate balance Postecoglou must strike. With injuries and international absences affecting the squad, it’s crucial for him to provide some players with valuable minutes while ensuring the team’s strength isn’t compromised.
In goal, Fraser Forster is expected to feature, providing crucial game time and cover for Guglielmo Vicario. Meanwhile, young talents like Ashley Phillips or Alfie Dorrington may get their chance due to limited senior opportunities as the squad sees the return of key players and new signings. Additionally, Postecoglou may opt for tactical adjustments, resting players like Destiny Udogie and using Emerson Royal on the left, or deploying a young defender alongside Ben Davies or Eric Dier.
In the absence of Son Heung-min, Pape Matar Sarr, and Yves Bissouma, tactical reshuffles are anticipated. Oliver Skipp could play a pivotal role in midfield, with Dejan Kulusevski rejoining the front three after a suspension. The suggested lineup envisions a team with a careful mix of experience and youthful energy, aimed at achieving the delicate balance Postecoglou seeks.
The anticipated lineup is predicted to include Fraser Forster in goal, with Porro, Phillips, Davies, and Udogie in defense. In midfield, Skipp, Bentancur, and Lo Celso are expected to feature, while up front, the likes of Kulusevski, Richarlison, and Johnson could step up to the challenge.
As they prepare to face Burnley, Tottenham must find the right blend of personnel to prioritize the FA Cup while not underestimating their opponents. The team’s decision-making will revolve around making strategic adjustments rather than drastic changes, keeping in mind the formidable challenge Burnley presents and the club’s aspirations for FA Cup success.