A wounded Tottenham Hotspur travel to face Aston Villa’s side on Sunday, after a dreadful few away games in the Premier League and Europa League. Defeat in the North London Derby dented Spurs’ hopes of qualifying for the Champions League, and their chance at a trophy and another route into the Champions League was also slipped away from them as they lost 3-2 on aggregate to Dinamo Zagreb.
It has been a tough few weeks for Tottenham Hotspur, slipping up in the Premier League and then crashing out of the Europa League in midweek has brought down the collective morale at the club.
Tottenham’s chances of progression seemed imminent when they drew Croatian outfit Dinamo Zagreb in the Last 16 draws. And they seemed on course to enter the Quarter-finals of the Europa League after winning the first leg 2-0 at home. Spurs completely collapsed in the second leg, conceding thrice and losing the tie 3-2 on aggregate. It was an embarrassing performance from Spurs who didn’t really look up for the task in the second leg.
Jose Mourinho’s comments after the game didn’t come as a shock, the Special One didn’t hold back, and was quick to criticize the players. In the post-match interview, the manager said, “My Team Didn’t Look like they were playing an Important Match.” He also went on to say, “To me every match is important, and every game is important to Tottenham Fans.”
He also mentioned that “Dinamo Zagreb won the game based on their attitude alone. I feel sorry that my team is the team that didn’t have the right attitude and respect towards the game.”
It’s time to shift focus back to the Premier League now and try to salvage some pride before the International break. They play the last card that they had up their sleeve this Sunday; their game in hand.
A win would take Tottenham within three points of the Champions League Places, but after such a devastating defeat just 3 days prior, will this Tottenham squad have the mentality to pick up a win?
Spurs do have a good record in this fixture, however, winning all but one of their Last 10 Premier League meetings against Aston Villa. Dropping points on Sunday will almost mean a surrender of a chance to qualify for the Champions League, as it would put Everton, West Ham, and Liverpool at a massive advantage going into the next game week.
Tottenham Injury News vs Aston Villa:
Son Heung-Min has not recovered from the injury sustained against Arsenal last weekend, while Erik Lamela is suspended after picking up a red card in London Derby.
Tottenham Predicted XI vs Aston Villa:
Harry Kane played the entirety of the Zagreb game including extra time, meaning that Kane could be given a rest, to help the striker mentally and physically recuperate.
GK: Lloris.
Defense: Doherty, Sanchez, Alderweireld, Reguilon.
Midfield: Hojbjerg, Ndombele.
Forwards: Bale, Lucas, Bergwijn.
Striker: Vinicius.
