Tottenham host Southampton on Sunday, March 23 at White Hart Lane for the Premier League. After two consecutive defeats by London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal, Spurs need to win in order to keep alive any hope of finishing in top four. Tim Sherwood’ s team went out of Europe last Thursday after a 2-2 draw at Benfica in the Europa League, in a match that they at least showed fighting spirit. The manager has still some injury headaches for the Saints game. Let’s take a look at his options.
Goalkeeper
Sherwood gave Brad Friedel a game in the Europa League last time out, but Hugo Lloris should be restored for the match against the Saints.
Defense
The manager used a makeshift defense last time out at Benfica, but the injury problems are easing up a bit for the next match. Jan Vertonghen returns in the heart of defense after missing the European game with suspension, and he could have Younes Kaboul as a partner, with the latter possibly returning from injury. Vlad Chiriches and Michael Dawson are still out. At right back, Kyle Naughton will continue in the absence of Kyle Walker, while Danny Rose will play on the left.
Midfield
Sherwood’s problems continue in midfield, with Ettiene Capoue and Paulinho still out and Moussa Dembele doubtful. Sandro returns to his natural place though, after playing as an emergency centre-back in Portugal, and he could play in centre midfield alongside Nacer Chadli, who had a great match at Benfica, playing behind the striker and scoring two goals. Aaron Lennon should start as right midfielder and Christian Eriksen on the left.
Attack
Emmanuel Adebayor missed the Benfica trip with fitness problems but is expected to return for the Saints game, with Roberto Soldado probably as his partner in a 4-4-2 formation. Erik Lamela is still out.
Possible lineup (4-4-2): Lloris; Naughton, Kaboul, Vertonghen, Rose; Lennon, Sandro, Chadli, Eriksen; Soldado, Adebayor.
