Tottenham Hotspur face a crucial UEFA Europa League round of 16 second-leg clash against AZ Alkmaar at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, Spurs must deliver a strong performance to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
Currently on a three-game winless run, the pressure is mounting on Ange Postecoglou, whose job could be at risk if the team fails to progress.
With that in mind, the Australian manager is expected to field his strongest possible XI. Here’s a look at how Spurs could line up for this decisive match:
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario is likely to retain his place in goal, ahead of Antonin Kinsky and Fraser Forster.
Defence – Pedro Porro is expected to start at right-back, while Destiny Udogie could replace Djed Spence on the left. Cristian Romero, who played an hour against Bournemouth, is set to feature at center-back, potentially alongside winter signing Kevin Danso.
Midfield – Rodrigo Bentancur’s suspension following a red card in the first leg means Yves Bissouma could step in as the holding midfielder.
Pape Matar Sarr, who found the net in the draw against Bournemouth, may slot into the right side of midfield, while James Maddison is likely to complete the trio after a substitute appearance against the Cherries.
Attack – Brennan Johnson is expected to keep his place on the right wing, with Dominic Solanke leading the attack after playing the full 90 minutes against Bournemouth.
Son Heung-min, who was benched at the weekend but came on to score a crucial penalty, is poised to return to the starting XI, occupying the left flank.
Here’s a possible look at Spurs’ lineup on paper for this must-win fixture.
