Tottenham projected XI v Burnley: Pochettino will change shape

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LEICESTER, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 28: Davinson Sanchez of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur at The King Power Stadium on November 28, 2017 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Centre back-Davinson Sanchez

The talented Colombian defender’s return comes at an excellent time for Pochettino. The combination of Eric Dier and Jan Vertonghen hasn’t held up in the face of offensive pressure.

Fortunately, Sanchez is the perfect addition to help solidify that weakness. He’s a no-nonsense defender who will immediately boost his club’s back line. Sanchez made a foolish mistake against Watford that caused him valuable match time, but it does mean he’ll be well-rested to take on Burnley.

Centre back-Jan Vertonghen

Vertonghen has been the one constant for Pochettino’s back line this year. He has managed to play well no matter who he’s been partnered with. That doesn’t mean he won’t be buoyed by the return of Sanchez to play next to him.

The formation change should also free the Belgian to run forward more with the ball. That could be crucial to Tottenham’s efforts to break Burnley down. Sean Dyche won’t have his team parking the bus, but they may not come out and attack all that often. A searing run from Vertonghen could open them up at a crucial moment.

Centre back-Eric Dier

As I’ve previously stated, Dier is lucky to retain his place in the starting XI due to all of the squad’s injuries. I’d strongly consider playing Juan Foyth here if I were Pochettino, but I suspect he’ll play it safe and stick with the more experienced Dier.

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