The Fullbacks
Many Tottenham fans were caught off guard when Ben Davies got the start at left back against West Brom on Saturday. To me, that was a clear indication that Danny Rose was being rested for the match at Leverkusen.
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His pace will be a huge asset to the Spurs back line against a clever Leverkusen attack. In particular, Rose’s speed can help counteract the clever movement of Chicharito.
The right back selection represents a more interesting question. Kyle Walker has played a lot of football lately and he too, could have used a rest against West Brom. Unlike Rose, he played the full 90 minutes against the Baggies.
That could open the door for Kieran Trippier to get a Champions League start, but I just don’t see Pochettino trusting him in such an important fixture. Look for Walker to get the starting nod again. He’ll be rested some other time.