Tottenham projected XI v Stoke: How will Spurs cope without Sanchez?

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WATFORD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Marvin Zeegelaar of Watford fouls Kieran Trippier of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Watford and Tottenham Hotspur at Vicarage Road on December 2, 2017 in Watford, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /

Right back-Kieran Trippier

Serge Aurier got the start against APOEL in the midweek which makes this an obvious selection for Pochettino. Trippier will be counted on to help unlock the Stoke City defense with his terrific crossing ability.

Even if you believe crossing is overrated (which is correct) it’s still a threat for the opposition. The more often Trippier can find time and space on the ball down the right flank, the better off Pochettino’s squad will be.

Left back-Ben Davies

Pochettino’s preferred rotation means that Davies will get the starting nod ahead of Danny Rose as well. He lacks the foot speed of his English teammate, but makes up for it by possessing terrific skill on the ball.

Davies doesn’t get forward as often as Trippier, but he will be expected to ping his share of crosses into the box as well. More importantly, Davies will be counted on to provide additional defensive stability in this match. Don’t be surprised to see him hang back and function as a third centre back at times.

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