Tottenham v West Ham projected Spurs starting XI: Indispensable star returns for Pochettino

Striker-Harry Kane

Fernando Llorente might be desperate to play his way into match fitness, but he isn’t going to displace Harry Kane in this match. England’s number one striker relishes London derbies too much to be nailed to the bench.

As usual, he will be the focal point of West Ham’s defensive scouting report. The key to Kane’s game is that he doesn’t necessarily have to score goals to be effective. His tireless movement can drag defenders out of position all match long. That gives Kane a real opportunity to create numerous scoring chances without ever touching the ball.

Of course, he’s also a deadly finisher with the ball at his feet. Don’t be at all surprised to see him notch another important goal for Spurs on Saturday.

Keeper-Hugo Lloris

Michel Vorm did an excellent job keeping a clean sheet against Barnsley but there’s no goalkeeper controversy here. Tottenham’s French captain starts the important matches for Pochettino.

This may not be the most glamorous tie of the season, but three points are imperative. As such, Lloris will start this match between the pipes.

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Bench-Fernando Llorente, Harry Winks and Moussa Sissoko

Don’t look now, but Pochettino certainly has real options on the substitute’s bench. In this match, look for him to utilize some of his more familiar options.

Llorente is likely to come on late in the match to help the club attack and defend set pieces in the air. Winks and Sissoko are also likely substitutes to provide fresh legs in the midfield. Exactly when and where they slot in will depend heavily on time and score.