Tottenham starting XI at Swansea: Spurs missing three massive stars

6 of 6

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – MARCH 11: Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur shakes hands with Jan Vertonghen of Tottenham Hotspur and Davinson Sanchez of Tottenham Hotspur after the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium on March 11, 2018 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /

Centre back-Davinson Sanchez

Swansea will clearly try to target Tottenham on the counter attack. They lack the skill and talent to possess the ball against Spurs for extended periods of time. That makes Davinson Sanchez the perfect defender to start this match.

His rare combination of size and pace make him perfectly suited to snuff out counter attacks before they truly gain steam. Tammy Abraham and company may fancy their chances of beating the Colombian, but his record on the year has been excellent against all opposition. Look for him to make several well-timed clearances to keep Spurs in control.

Centre back-Jan Vertonghen

This match also sets up well for Tottenham’s’ “other” Belgian centre back. Vertonghen figures to have several opportunities to get forward and contribute to the Spurs attack in this match. He can’t afford to go too far too often, but a well-timed run or two could really turn the match in his club’s favour.

Next: Pochettino gives negative injury update

On the defensive side of things, he needs to play his usual cool, calm match. He may not be outstanding in any one area of defending, but he’s above-average in every way. Add it all up and that makes him one of Europe’s top centre backs. Pochettino will rely on his experience heavily to defeat Swansea.

Home/Tottenham Hotspur