Right Back-Kyle Walker-Peters
Heading into the Newcastle match, Kyle Walker-Peters was the biggest surprise in the Spurs starting XI. Fortunately for Pochettino and company, he put in an excellent performance against Rafa Benitez’s squad.
Walker-Peters arguably had the most difficult assignment of the afternoon while dealing with Chelsea loanee Christian Atsu. He kept the speedster at bay and spent tons of time in Newcastle’s defensive third. He was awarded Man of the Match even though Christian Eriksen likely deserved the honour.
Look for Walker-Peters to get another chance in place of injured Kieran Trippier. This will be a bigger test for the English starlet, but he has the talent to handle the Chelsea attack.
Left Back-Ben Davies
This is certainly one of the matches that I really wish Danny Rose could play in. Unfortunately, he won’t recover in time to take the pitch. That means that Ben Davies is a lock to play in his place.
To the Welshman’s credit, he’s exceeded everyone’s expectations in place of Rose. He’ll need to put another solid shift in to help his squad secure the victory.
Centre Back-Toby Alderweireld
Let’s be honest, there’s zero drama in Pochettino’s centre back pairing if his Belgian duo are both fit. Alderweireld is a lock to take his usual place in the Spurs starting XI.
Centre Back-Jan Vertonghen
Vertonghen will share in the responsibility of keeping the Chelsea attack at bay. He’ll need to keep his cool to deal with Alvaro Morata. Fortunately, he’s got the pace and talent to keep the young Spaniard off the scoreboard.