Tottenham Hotspur were knocked out of the FA Cup last weekend, where they lost to Manchester United in the semi-finals at Wembley. That was their only shot at silverware this season and Mauricio Pochettino should now start thinking about the next season. Spurs are currently in fourth, behind Liverpool, and will have to end the season strongly, to make sure they qualify for the Champions League next season.
Spurs have a game in hand over Liverpool and will look to retain that advantage when they welcome Watford to Wembley in a Monday night kick-off. The Hornets are fresh from a draw against Crystal Palace but have not won any of their last six games. They are safe in the 12th place and though would want to win this game, might not be too motivated.
Pochettino’s men cannot afford any complacency in the race to the top-4 and here is the predicted lineup he might field for this tie:
Team News
In early team news, young Harry Winks is now ruled out for the rest of the season. He will not be a big miss for Spurs, who are set to welcome Danny Rose back from a calf strain. He remains the only other injury concern for Spurs ahead of this game.
Expected lineup (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Hugo Lloris was not used in the FA Cup tie but should be back in action this weekend and will start under the bar for Spurs. Davinson Sanchez has done really well in his first season in England and will start alongside Jan Vertonghen at the heart of the backline for Pochettino’s men.
Though Rose is back, Ben Davies has been in decent form and deserves to keep his place in the side at left-back while Serge Aurier who was an unused substitute in that FA Cup game is expected to add some creativity on the right side of the backline.
Midfield
Mousa Dembele did not have the greatest games against The Red Devils but is a crucial part of the squad and should start at the heart of the midfield. He will be partnered with Eric Dier, who will add some mettle to Spurs’ midfield.
Attack
Harry Kane drew blanks in the FA Cup tie and will be itching to find the back of the net this weekend. He will be the danger man for Watford along with Christian Eriksen, who will start on the right flank and Dele Alli, who will be given the no.10 role.
Son Heung-Min also had a forgettable FA Cup semi-final and could be replaced by Lucas Moura, who is slowly picking up some form.
Here is how they might line up:
