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Key matchups in Tottenham vs Liverpool

By Matt English

Liverpool's English striker Daniel Sturridge (C) applauds supporters at the final whistle during the EFL (English Football League) Cup fourth round match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in Liverpool north west England on October 25, 2016.Sturridge scored both their goals as Liverpool won the game 2-1. / AFP / Oli SCARFF / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)
Liverpool's English striker Daniel Sturridge (C) applauds supporters at the final whistle during the EFL (English Football League) Cup fourth round match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in Liverpool north west England on October 25, 2016.Sturridge scored both their goals as Liverpool won the game 2-1. / AFP / Oli SCARFF / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images) /
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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 15: James Milner of Liverpool (C) celebrates as he scores their first goal from a penalty during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on January 15, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 15: James Milner of Liverpool (C) celebrates as he scores their first goal from a penalty during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on January 15, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /

Christian Eriksen vs James Milner

A huge area of concern for Liverpool has been their defense this season. James Milner replaced Alberto Moreno early in the season as a makeshift left back, switching from his usual position in the midfield. The change started out well, but has recently been a liability issue for the Reds. The Englishman works hard without a doubt, but lacks pace and a true defensive mindset. It could end up being a long day for Milner if the Spurs attack his side of the field early.

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If Spurs line up like they did against Middlesbrough, then Milner will have the tough job of covering Christian Eriksen down the wing. Eriksen, leading the team with eight assists, will be greatly looking forward to the matchup with Milner. The Danish international is an incredibly tough player to stop for even the most elite defenders, let alone an inexperienced one. His set pieces are top class and his ability to pick out a man could spell a long night for Milner and company.

Stopping the supply from Eriksen will be one of the main goals of Milner. The problems will start when Eriksen’s dribbling skill comes into play. He will more likely than not draw a few fouls from the Englishmen, setting him up nicely for a free kick or two. Liverpool will need to provide cover for Milner if they are going to stop Eriksen form terrorizing their defense.

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