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Spurs Aim to Secure Last 16 Spot Despite Injury Crisis
- Tottenham host Swedish side Elfsborg in a crucial Europa League fixture
- A win will guarantee Spurs a place in the last 16, avoiding an extra knockout round
- Ange Postecoglou faces mounting pressure amid poor form and major injury concerns
Tottenham return to European action on Thursday night, looking to bounce back from a rough patch of form as they take on Elfsborg at home. Ange Postecoglou’s side has struggled for consistency, but a victory here will secure their place in the Europa League last 16, eliminating the need for a play-off round in February.
However, the injury crisis at Spurs continues to be a major headache. Key players like Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie, James Maddison, and Dominic Solanke are unavailable, leaving Postecoglou with a heavily rotated squad.
So, how will Spurs line up for this pivotal clash?
Tottenham Predicted Lineup vs Elfsborg (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper & Defence
🧤 GK: Brandon Austin – With Guglielmo Vicario injured and Antonin Kinsky ineligible, Austin is set to make his third senior appearance. The academy graduate has impressed in his previous outings.
🛡 RB: Pedro Porro – Showed his attacking quality with a fine assist against Leicester but will need to be sharper defensively after costly mistakes.
🛡 CB: Radu Dragusin – With limited defensive options, Dragusin is almost certain to start. While questions remain over his long-term suitability for Spurs, he has a big opportunity to step up.
🛡 CB: Ben Davies – The Welshman’s return hasn’t exactly solidified the backline, but his experience is crucial in the current injury crisis.
🛡 LB: Archie Gray – The versatile youngster has been deployed all over the pitch this season and is expected to fill in at left-back once again.
Midfield Trio
⚙️ CM: Lucas Bergvall – The Swedish wonderkid is growing into his role at Spurs and will relish facing familiar opposition from his homeland.
💪 CM: Yves Bissouma – After returning to the bench at the weekend, Bissouma could start to add steel and control to the midfield.
🎯 CM: Rodrigo Bentancur – With James Maddison sidelined, Bentancur will be expected to dictate play and provide creativity in midfield.
Attack
⚡ RW: Dejan Kulusevski – Has often been Spurs’ game-changer this season, and as a Swedish international, he will be extra motivated against Elfsborg.
⚽ ST: Richarlison – Back among the goals at the weekend, the Brazilian will need to lead the line effectively in Solanke’s absence.
🌟 LW: Son Heung-min – With ten goals in all competitions this season, the South Korean remains Tottenham’s most dangerous attacking threat.
Can Tottenham End Their Poor Home Form?
Despite their struggles in recent weeks, Spurs still have the quality to get the job done against Elfsborg. A convincing performance will not only secure a last 16 berth but also provide much-needed momentum heading into the busy fixture schedule.
💬 Do you think Spurs will cruise past Elfsborg or will their injury woes prove costly? Drop your predictions below! ⬇️
