Tottenham Predicted XI vs. Rangers: £48m Star Likely to Miss Out, Archie Gray Poised to Feature
Tottenham Hotspur will aim to snap their recent poor run of form when they face Rangers in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night. With just one win in their last six games across all competitions, Spurs are struggling to navigate a challenging period marked by injuries and suspensions. This clash at Ibrox provides an opportunity for Ange Postecoglou’s side to regain momentum as they aim to stay competitive in Group B.
Meanwhile, Rangers, under the guidance of Philippe Clement, have been showing resilience despite an underwhelming domestic campaign. They trail rivals Celtic by 11 points in the Scottish Premiership but are unbeaten in eight games in all competitions, winning six of them. Rangers are level on points with Tottenham in the Europa League standings, adding extra significance to Thursday’s encounter.
Let’s take a closer look at how Spurs might line up for this crucial fixture.
Tottenham Team News
Injuries have taken a heavy toll on Tottenham’s squad, with key players such as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven unavailable after sustaining injuries in the recent defeat to Chelsea. Both first-choice centre-backs are expected to be out for an extended period, with Van de Ven potentially sidelined until the New Year.
Adding to Tottenham’s woes, goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, winger Richarlison, youngster Wilson Odobert, and versatile defender Ben Davies are all unavailable for the trip to Ibrox. Mikey Moore is still recovering from illness, leaving Spurs with limited options across the pitch.
Postecoglou has indicated that he will stick with the resources available, but some tactical adjustments and fresh faces could be introduced to manage the squad’s fitness amid this demanding schedule.
Defensive Dilemmas: Archie Gray to Feature Again?
Fraser Forster is set to retain his spot in goal, with Vicario still sidelined. The full-back positions will likely be filled by Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie, both of whom have been consistent performers this season.
At centre-back, Tottenham face a real conundrum. With Romero and Van de Ven out, Radu Dragusin remains the only fit senior centre-back. As a result, 17-year-old Archie Gray is expected to start alongside Dragusin. Gray has already featured in this makeshift role against Bournemouth and Chelsea, demonstrating composure beyond his years. Postecoglou praised the youngster’s versatility, and he could be handed another significant test against Rangers’ attacking threats.
Midfield Adjustments
The midfield offers Postecoglou slightly more flexibility. Rodrigo Bentancur, whose domestic suspension does not apply in European competitions, is available and could be a vital inclusion. His experience and creativity will be essential in providing stability and forward momentum.
James Maddison is also likely to return to the starting XI after recovering from a minor knock. The England international’s ability to dictate play and unlock defenses will be crucial in breaking down a well-organized Rangers side. Completing the midfield trio, Lucas Bergvall could be handed a start. The young Swede has impressed in limited appearances and offers energy and technical skill in the middle of the park.
This combination would allow Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, and Dejan Kulusevski to rest ahead of Tottenham’s Premier League clash with Southampton on Sunday.
Limited Options Up Front
The injury crisis extends to Spurs’ attacking line, with Richarlison, Odobert, and Moore all unavailable. Brennan Johnson, who has been dealing with fitness concerns, is also doubtful for Thursday’s match.
In light of these absences, Timo Werner could make a return to the starting XI. The German forward, who joined Spurs during the summer transfer window for £48 million, has had a mixed start to life in North London but remains a dangerous option in the final third.
Dominic Solanke is expected to retain his place as the central striker, while Son Heung-min, Tottenham’s top scorer this season, will likely occupy his usual position on the left wing.
Predicted Starting XI
With limited squad depth and a need to balance European and domestic commitments, Postecoglou’s lineup could look like this:
Formation: 4-3-3
– Goalkeeper:Forster
– Defenders: Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie
– Midfielders: Maddison, Bentancur, Bergvall
– Forwards: Werner, Solanke, Son
This lineup balances the need for experienced players in key positions while giving opportunities to young talents like Gray and Bergvall.
### Key Takeaways
Tottenham’s trip to Ibrox comes at a pivotal moment in their season. A win would bolster their chances of progressing to the Europa League knockout stages and provide a much-needed confidence boost. However, Rangers will be no pushovers, particularly on their home turf, where they have enjoyed strong European performances in recent years.
With injuries forcing Postecoglou to shuffle his squad, the match will test Tottenham’s depth and resilience. Whether they can overcome these challenges and return to winning ways remains to be seen.
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