“Postecoglou’s Big Call: Romero Dropped in Daring Tottenham XI for West Ham Clash”
“Postecoglou to Shake Things Up: Romero Dropped in Bold Tottenham XI Prediction vs. West Ham”
Tottenham has a crucial London derby against West Ham on the horizon before heading to Norway.
Ange Postecoglou’s squad secured a 3-1 victory over Bodø/Glimt at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday (1 May) in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final clash.
Tottenham faced a significant setback with Lucas Bergvall’s injury just before kick-off. Despite this, the Lilywhites made a lightning start, with Brennan Johnson finding the net in the opening minute.
James Maddison and Dominic Solanke added to the tally, securing a 3-0 lead. However, a late goal from Bodø/Glimt keeps the UEFA Europa League semi-final finely poised ahead of the second leg at Aspmyra Stadion on Thursday (8 May).
With the Premier League offering no further stakes for Tottenham, Postecoglou is expected to rotate his squad significantly for the clash against West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday (4 May).
Postecoglou set to make eight changes for West Ham clash
Guglielmo Vicario, who faced little action against Bodø/Glimt as the Norwegian side managed only three shots in North London [Sofascore], is likely to retain his spot in goal for Sunday’s match.
In defense, however, Postecoglou is expected to implement three changes.
Ben Davies could step in for Micky van de Ven, who impressed on Thursday by winning 100% of his aerial duels and completing 96% of his passes. Kevin Danso is expected to replace Cristian Romero, who drew criticism from Ally McCoist for a controversial moment during the semi-final.
Destiny Udogie might make way for Djed Spence, while Pedro Porro is set to retain his spot after delivering an assist and creating four key chances against Bodø/Glimt.
In midfield, Postecoglou is likely to overhaul the lineup. James Maddison, who starred on Thursday with a goal and a 93% pass completion rate, left the pitch in discomfort and is unlikely to be risked. Dejan Kulusevski is expected to step in as he continues to regain match fitness.
Meanwhile, Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray are likely to replace Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma, with Bergvall sidelined due to injury.
Postecoglou set to rest Solanke against West Ham
Similar to Maddison, Solanke exited the field with a minor injury after scoring and completing 80% of his passes against Bodø/Glimt.
As a result, Richarlison is expected to remain as the central striker, with Mathys Tel likely to feature on the left and Wilson Odobert stepping in for Johnson on the right flank.