Tottenham v Newcastle: Spurs projected starting XI

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LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 05: Eric Dier of Spurs in action during the pre-season match between Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus at Wembley Stadium on August 5, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

Right Back-Eric Dier

Just as Eric Dier thought he’d found his way back into the defensive midfield, Kieran Trippier’s injury against Juventus will force him back into Pochettino’s top four.

Look for him to serve as a short-term solution for the club until a more accomplished right back can be brought in. It’s possible that Kyle Walker-Peters could surprise and make his debut, but bet on Pochettino to select the safer option.

Centre Back-Toby Alderweireld

One place that isn’t up for grabs ahead of Sunday’s match is the centre back position. Toby Alderweireld will certainly be a starter in the match. Look for him to occupy his most comfortable position as the right-sided player in Pochettino’s back four. He’ll be handed a lot of responsibility to support Dier to his right.

Centre Back-Jan Vertonghen

Alderweireld will be flanked, as usual, by his Belgian teammate Jan Vertonghen. In all honesty, he had a better season than his countryman last year, but that went largely unnoticed by fans and pundits alike. Another top-shelf campaign could easily shift Vertonghen into the conversation of who is the best centre back in the Premier League.

Left Back-Ben Davies

The absence of Danny Rose makes this an obvious call for Pochettino. While Davies lacks the impressive athleticism that Rose adds to the Spurs lineup, he does give them a steadying influence at left back. He isn’t a star, but he won’t be asked to play a starring role against Newcastle on Sunday.

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