The Defensive Midfield
The only certainty about Pochettino’s defensive midfield is that Victor Wanyama will definitely start the match. He’s perfectly suited to play in what’s sure to be such a physical contest.
Ironically, the Kenyan destroyer may find himself matched up against a former Spur for long stretches. Nacer Chadli has been featured heavily since making the move to West Brom from Tottenham and will likely function as the Baggies best hope at scoring a goal in the match.
The selection of Wanyama is pretty simple. Mousa Dembele is going to miss the match due to injury, and Eric Dier hasn’t quite been himself this year. He also happens to be coming off a pretty ugly performance for England in their last match.
If Pochettino elects to deploy a double-pivot, expect Dier to join Wanyama in shielding the back four. That’s too negative a lineup against a West Brom side that’s sure to sit back and put ten men behind the ball. Look for the Kenyan to start the match on his own in the defensive midfield.