From Lopetegui’s past history I’d be surprised (and pleased) If he does make any changes to the team which beat Ipswich Town two weeks ago in a four – one defeat at London Stadium. Going away from home always makes head coaches or managers become more cautious even though all of the pundits and commentators refer back to Spurs last couple of games and confirm they wilt under pressure.
So whilst being an armchair supporter and trying to second – guess Lopetegui is easy, looking for aggressive play and writing about the benefits of starting Summerville, Bowen and Kudus up front, Lopetegui is the one who has to carry the can for losing – so I understand the lack of gambling spirit in his selection.
I’d expect him to be more cautious and start the same team, even though some of them must be tired from their schedule. Especially Antonio who looked as mobile as a lamp post when he played after the last international break.
So the predicted line up to start against Spurs:
Areola I Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Emerson I Rodriguez, Soucek, Paqueta I Kudus, Bowen, Antonio.
Prediction – Spurs win. Sadly. 2-1
———————————————-
Last Time against Ipswich: 9/11 correct.
Our Prediction:
Areola: I Emerson, Kilman, Todibo, Wan-Bissaka: I Alvarez, Soucek, Soler I Bowen, Antonio, Kudus
Actual Team:
Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Emerson, Rodriguez, Soucek, Paqueta, Kudus, Bowen, Antonio.
I would give Kudus a rest in the first half and bring him into the game for the second 45 minutes.Start I would put Summerville on the left, Ings in the centre and Bowen on the right.