As Tottenham Hotspur prepares to face Crystal Palace in a crucial Premier League encounter on March 2, 2024, fans and pundits alike are keenly anticipating the lineup decisions from both sides.
With injuries and fitness levels influencing selections, here's what we can expect from this high-stakes match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Spurs' Lineup Shaped by Injuries
Tottenham's lineup has been significantly affected by recent injuries. Key forward Richarlison is sidelined for around three weeks following a knee injury, leaving a gap in Spurs' attacking options.
However, the team's depth of talent provides some solace. Heung-min Son, Tottenham's versatile captain, is expected to lead the attack, filling the void left by Richarlison. His performance earlier in the season up front has been commendable, making him a reliable choice for manager Ange Postecoglou.
On the wings, Dejan Kulusevski, Timo Werner, and Brennan Johnson are in contention, each bringing their unique strengths to the team's dynamic forward line.
The defence sees Emerson Royal likely continuing at right-back in Pedro Porro's absence, who is a week away from returning to training. Destiny Udogie, on the other hand, offers a boost as he returns to the left side of the defence, recovering in time for this pivotal match.
Midfield and Defensive Considerations
In midfield, Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr are likely starters, showcasing Tottenham's robust midfield options despite stiff competition from teammates such as Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Oliver Skipp, and Giovani Lo Celso.
Unfortunately, Ryan Sessegnon's season has ended prematurely due to another hamstring surgery, and Manor Solomon's return remains uncertain, adding to Tottenham's injury woes.
Predicted Tottenham XI (4-2-3-1)
Vicario; Emerson, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie; Bissouma, Sarr; Kulusevski, Maddison, Werner; Son.
Crystal Palace's Tactical Setup Under Glasner
With Oliver Glasner at the helm, Crystal Palace enters this Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur with renewed optimism. The Eagles' recent 3-0 victory over Burnley in Glasner's debut showcased a team rejuvenated, ready to take on the challenges ahead with a mix of tactical discipline and attacking flair.
Crystal Palace's lineup against Tottenham is expected to reflect Glasner's tactical preferences and adapt to the recent injury updates. Joachim Andersen is slated to return to the starting XI, overcoming his fitness concerns, and will play a crucial role in Palace's defence alongside teammates geared up for a solid performance.
Eberechi Eze, known for his creativity and ability to turn games around, is likely to start, offering Palace a significant threat in the attacking third. His partnership with players like Will Hughes could prove vital in breaking down Tottenham's defence. Unfortunately, Crystal Palace will miss the services of Michael Olise, Rob Holding, Marc Guehi, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, and Cheick Doucoure due to injuries, impacting the team's depth and options.
This formation and personnel choice suggest a balanced approach, aiming to be compact in defence while exploiting the width and pace on the counter-attack. Eze's role will be pivotal, acting as the creative linchpin to support Jean-Philippe Mateta upfront, with Jordan Ayew's work rate and versatility adding another dimension to Palace's attack.
Predicted Crystal Palace XI (3-4-2-1)
Johnstone; Ward, Richards, Andersen; Munoz, Wharton, Lerma, Mitchell; Eze, Ayew; Mateta.
FAQ
What time is the Tottenham vs Crystal Palace match? The match is scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
Where will the game be played? The game will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Who is expected to replace Richarlison in the lineup? Heung-min Son is likely to replace Richarlison as the focal point in attack.
Are there any major injury concerns for Tottenham? Yes, along with Richarlison, Pedro Porro, Ryan Sessegnon, and Manor Solomon are notable absences due to injuries.
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