Following an opening day defeat, newly promoted Fulham will be keen on getting off the mark in this new season as they visit Wembley to face Tottenham Hotspur.
The Lilywhites, however, are coming on the back of a 2:1 win over Newcastle United and are definitely the better team on paper.
Team news
Fulham will miss out on the services of new signing Alfie Mawson, who is still recovering from an injury. Midfielder Floyd Ayite is also sidelined with injury while Denis Odoi is suspended for Fulham.
In addition, Joe Bryan, who started in the opening game against Crystal Palace is doubtful along with Tim Ream.
On a positive note, Fulham fans can expect deadline day signing Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa to be included on the bench. The Cameroonian international has already impressed in his first training session with the club, which could potentially force Jokanovic to hand him his debut later on in the game.
Predicted Fulham Lineup vs Tottenham Hotspur (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
New signing Fabri will keep his place in between the sticks, despite making an individual error which led to a goal last week. The former Besiktas number one will be under a lot of pressure to deliver in his next game but he has the quality to bounce back.
Jokanovic is not expected to make drastic changes to the side that lost to Crystal Palace aside from a little alternation at the back, which could see Maxime La Marchand shifting into the left-back position. The former Nice defender will likely deputize for the doubtful Joe Bryan.
Marchand’s slight shift in position will allow Timothy Fosu-Mensah to make the first appearance of this season. The Manchester United starlet will partner Calum Chambers in central midfield with Cyrus Christie taking charge of the right-back position.
MIDFIELD
In midfield, Fulham are likely to go with the similar three-man midfield chain they used against Palace. Reliable midfielder Kevin McDonald will be key in screening the defensive backline with his industry and work-ethic while club captain Tom Cairney will complement McDonald’s efforts in midfield.
But, all eyes will be on Jean-Michael Seri, who will be eager to kick on after an excellent debut that saw him attempt 93 passes with an excellent accuracy of 89%. His pinpoint passing and ball circulation will be key to Fulham’s attempt at playing attractive football.
ATTACK
Finally, Fulham’s attack will be led by Aleksandar Mitrovic. The former Newcastle United striker looked sharp in the last game and will be looking to get off the mark against Spurs. He will be supported by the duo of Andre Schurrle and Ryan Sessegnon in wider positions.
Sessegnon, in particular, has a lot of burden on his shoulders following an excellent campaign. But, Schurrle’s experience will be just as important in breaking down a highly disciplined Tottenham backline.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
