Tottenham predicted starting XI v Aston Villa: Lo Celso features for Spurs
Tottenham desperately need to earn all three points against Aston Villa on Sunday. Here’s how Jose Mourinho will line up to do the job.
Winter Break is over and Tottenham need to get right back to business on Sunday. That means Jose Mourinho needs to pick the right starting XI to knock off Jack Grealish and Aston Villa. Expect a few surprises from the “Special One.”
Keeper-Hugo Lloris
No shocks here from Mourinho. The French captain is in fine form and will get the nod. In a perfect world, Tottenham’s back line won’t give him much to do.
Right back-Serge Aurier
The Ivory Coast star is the subject of a lot of criticism on social media, but his form has actually been excellent under Mourinho. He’s an easy choice for this starting XI.
Centre back-Toby Alderweireld
The talented Belgian is one of the first names on Mourinho’s team sheet. He’s lost a step in terms of athleticism, but his skill on the ball more than makes up for it.
Centre back-Davinson Sanchez
Jan Vertonghen could get another chance here, but expect Mourinho to go with the better athlete. Sanchez needs to improve his mental game, but his pace could be a huge asset against Villa’s front line.
Left back-Ben Davies
This spot could easily go for Japhet Tanganga, but Mourinho loves Davies. The fact that the Welshman has already resumed full training is a huge tell here. Look for him to provide some balance on the pitch for Spurs.
Midfielder-Dele Alli
Dele made a really poor decision on social media during Winter Break, but don’t look for Mourinho to punish him by leaving him on the bench. He’ll want to get the best of Jack Grealish in a battle between two of England’s best young midfielders.
Midfielder-Giovani Lo Celso
Mourinho has been effusive with his praise of the Argentine lately. He loves his versatility. In this match, look for him to line up in the middle of Tottenham’s midfield three. He needs to outplay Grealish to power Spurs to a much-needed victory.
Midfielder-Gedson Fernandes
This represents Mourinho’s most surprising choice. Tanguy Ndombele still isn’t fit enough to survive a full 90 minutes. As such, Tottenham will go with Fernandes as their starter. Think of him as a good alternative during Moussa Sissoko‘s injury absence.
Midfielder-Harry Winks
Winks’ industry continues to earn Mourinho’s admiration. He will play the deepest role of the midfield three on Sunday. He isn’t the biggest defensive midfielder in England, but Spurs love the way he competes and moves the ball quickly.
Winger-Steven Bergwijn
The new boy shocked the Premier League with a devastating striker against Manchester City on his debut. Mourinho will want him to double down with another outstanding performance against Villa. Don’t be shocked if he causes the Villains real trouble down the flank.
Winger-Heung-Min Son
Son’s form has been up and down during Mourinho’s tenure. Tottenham will hope Son has his finishing boots on for this match. A sensual strike from the South Korean could be the difference in this match.
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Striker-Lucas Moura
Lucas isn’t the right player to start up top for Tottenham, but he’s the player Mourinho continues to go with. Perhaps he can find a way to hold the ball up effectively for Spurs on Sunday.