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Tottenham projected starting XI v Manchester City: Pochettino will attack Guardiola

By Rucker Haringey

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 06: Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League group H match between Tottenham Hotspur and APOEL Nicosia at Wembley Stadium on December 6, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 06: Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League group H match between Tottenham Hotspur and APOEL Nicosia at Wembley Stadium on December 6, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 09: Ben Davies of Tottenham Hotspur warms up prior to the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City at Wembley Stadium on December 9, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 09: Ben Davies of Tottenham Hotspur warms up prior to the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City at Wembley Stadium on December 9, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Left back-Ben Davies

It might be fair to argue that if Pochettino really wants to attack Manchester City, he should start Danny Rose in this match. While I see the logic to that argument, it’s pretty obvious that Ben Davies is going to get the start.

Pochettino has settled into a regular rotation of his fullbacks. Quite simply, Saturday is Davies’ turn to start. He might not be an ideal matchup against City’s pacy attackers, but he can provide a calming influence on the ball. Tottenham fans will hope that Davies’ lack of athleticism isn’t exposed during this challenging fixture.

Right back-Kieran Trippier

You can be sure that Trippier will feel as if he has a lot to prove against his old club. City didn’t give him a real shot to make their first team, and he’ll want them to pay dearly for it on Saturday.

Unfortunately, it’s a horrible matchup for Trippier too. He’s at his best when Tottenham enjoy loads of possession. Trying to win the battle of possession against Guardiola’s side is going to be quite a challenge. Trippier will start this match, but don’t be shocked if Serge Aurier finishes it.

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