After a fantastic result against Juventus away from home, Tottenham have a tricky tie against League One side Rochdale in the FA Cup. The side managed to beat Millwall in the fourth round FA Cup and have been rewarded with a home tie against the Premier League side.
Spurs did find it difficult to beat Newport but considering how well they played against Juventus, it’s hard to think of any result other than a Tottenham win.
If there’s any factor that could have an impact then it’s the pitch the game will be played on. Mauricio Pochettino revealed that the pitch wasn’t ideal for the side to play on and even though the club have invested £500,000 in getting the quality up, it could disintegrate as the game goes on.
Tottenham put a lot of effort against Juventus and are expected to give a few players a breather, so that could have an impact as well. Here’s how Pochettino’s side could line up for the clash…
Defence
Defender Toby Alderweireld didn’t travel with the squad to Turin, so he could get the nod alongside Juan Foyth at the heart of the defence.
Kieran Trippier has been in good form of late and it was a surprise to see him on the bench against Juventus. Expect him to start at right-back while Danny Rose will probably get the chance to play on the left. Michel Vorm will return in goal for the North London side.
Midfield
Mousa Dembele and Eric Dier put in a good shift and will be rested. Harry Winks and Victor Wanyama will most likely take their place in the midfield. Moussa Sissoko could get an advanced role and will want to make the most of this opportunity.
Winks could play in a box to box role while Wanyama will just sit in front of the defence and break Rochdale’s counters.
Attack
Son Heung-Min and Lucas Moura are expected to start as the two wide players. It’ll most likely be Lucas’ first full game and the fans will be eager for him to impress. An agile winger, he is expected to stretch the opposition defence and provide the service from the wide area to Fernando Llorente who will take Harry Kane’s place as the striker.
Spurs had to rely on Kane to equalise in their last away tie in the FA Cup but will hope the Spaniard can get the job done this time.
