Spurs predicted lineup vs AZ Alkmaar with key absences and returns | OneFootball

Spurs Predicted Lineup vs AZ Alkmaar: Key Returns but One Major Absence

Spurs Bolstered by Defensive Reinforcements

Tottenham will welcome back Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero and Dominic Solanke for tonight’s Europa League last-16 first-leg clash against AZ Alkmaar. However, Ange Postecoglou will be without Dejan Kulusevski, who is sidelined with a foot injury.

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Romero, absent since early December, has returned to full training and is expected to start at centre-back, likely pairing with Kevin Danso. Meanwhile, Van de Ven’s comeback from a prolonged hamstring issue offers further defensive depth. Despite his return, caution may be exercised, given his previous setbacks after fleeting appearances against Chelsea and Elfsborg.

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Solanke’s Availability Provides Attacking Options

The potential return of Solanke after seven weeks out with a knee injury is a major boost, though Postecoglou may opt to hold him back for Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Bournemouth.

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If Solanke is not risked, Heung-min Son could be deployed in a central role, especially with Mathys Tel struggling for form. Wilson Odobert and Brennan Johnson, both of whom started against Manchester City, will be pushing for further opportunities.

Competition in Midfield and Defensive Selection Dilemmas

Postecoglou faces a decision at full-back, needing to select two from Pedro Porro, Djed Spence, and Destiny Udogie. In midfield, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Matar Sarr, Yves Bissouma and Archie Gray are all competing for just two starting positions.

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Bentancur and Bergvall have formed a solid partnership in recent matches, starting the last four games together, making them favourites to retain their spots in the XI.

Predicted Tottenham XI vs AZ Alkmaar (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: VicarioDefenders: Porro, Romero, Danso, SpenceMidfielders: Bentancur, Bergvall, MaddisonForwards: Johnson, Odobert, Son

Injured: Kulusevski, Richarlison, Davies, DragusinIneligible: Kinsky, Werner, Forster

Match Details