CDM: Victor Wanyama
It was a solid performance a couple of weeks ago from Wanyama against Liverpool. However, I felt that he looked a little slow and lethargic on the ball, and perhaps should look to move the ball a little quicker in the middle of the park. That is the only criticism I would have of him, and I see no reason why he shouldn’t start at Stoke.
CDM: Eric Dier
With Mousa Dembele serving the last match of his suspension, both Wanyama and Dier will be desperate to put in a good performance before they have to start battling for first-team places with the returning Belgian midfielder. Both will be keen to impress Mauricio Pochettino.
LAM: Christian Eriksen
Eriksen did not look his best at home against Liverpool. He played on the left-hand side that day, and I expect Pochettino to deploy him in the same position on Saturday. However, with a new contract recently signed, the Dane will be keen to repay the faith that Pochettino has shown in him by rewarding him with a new deal.
CAM: Dele Alli
Alli was left out of Sam Allardyce’s first England starting eleven, with Wayne Rooney beating him to a starting spot. The youngster will be keen to work his way back into the England first eleven, and will be raring to go in an attempt to make an impression on new manager Allardyce.
RAM: Moussa Sissoko
Erik Lamela played for Argentina in the team that played out a 2-2 draw with Venezuala this week, and may not return to training until Friday. This could pave the way for Sissoko to make his full Spurs debut. The £30m signing will be keen to make an immediate impact since his deadline transfer. Will he mark his debut with a goal? Only time will tell…
Striker: Harry Kane
Although the England international has not scored a goal yet this season, I expect that Pochettino will play Harry Kane from the start here as he looks to put his August woes behind him. I think it will take a longer goal-drought before Pochettino thinks about dropping the striker.
