Tottenham projected starting XI at Southampton: No Lloris for Spurs

3 of 6

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 13: Cenk Tosun of Everton runs with the ball under pressure from Davinson Sanchez of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at Wembley Stadium on January 13, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Centre back-Davinson Sanchez

Pochettino will have an interesting decision to make when Toby Alderweireld returns to the lineup, but the talented Belgian is still a match or two away from returning to full fitness. As such, Sanchez is an easy choice for his manager in this one.

As usual, the physical Colombian will be counted on as the club’s last line of defense. He may have to work a bit harder to stay in step with Vorm, but it shouldn’t be more than Sanchez can handle. He may be required to come up big on an occasion or two, but he should enjoy long periods of inactivity.

Centre back-Jan Vertonghen

Slowly but surely, Vertonghen keeps playing truly outstanding football for Spurs. He may not be as flashy as Sanchez or Alderweireld, but he’s every bit as effective for Pochettino.

Given Tottenham’s likely advantage in terms of possession in this match, Vertonghen will want to get forward with the ball. He needs to make sure he doesn’t get too carried away. Shane Long is at his best on the counter attack. Vertonghen can’t give him an opening to put Spurs on the back foot.

Home/Tottenham Hotspur