Tottenham Hotspur are set to face AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League on Thursday, December 5th, at the Vitality Stadium. Ange Postecoglou’s side will aim to return to winning ways following their 1-1 draw against Fulham on December 1st. However, with ongoing injuries and fatigue among key players, the Australian coach may opt for a reshuffle in his lineup, including the potential omission of James Maddison.
**Recent Form and Injury Challenges**
-------------------------------------
Spurs have been inconsistent in recent weeks. They followed a stunning 4-0 win against Manchester City with a frustrating draw at home to Fulham. While Brennan Johnson’s goal gave Spurs the lead against the Cottagers, Tom Cairney’s equalizer, coupled with a late red card for Fulham, left the game feeling like a missed opportunity.
Injuries have significantly impacted Tottenham, with players like Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Rodrigo Bentancur unavailable. These absences have stretched the squad thin, forcing Postecoglou to rely on less experienced players or those playing out of position.
**Predicted Tottenham Lineup vs. Bournemouth**
----------------------------------------------
### **Goalkeeper and Defense**
Fraser Forster is expected to continue in goal, deputizing for the injured Vicario. Despite the team’s defensive frailties, Forster impressed against Fulham, making several crucial saves.
The backline will likely remain unchanged due to the injury crisis. Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie are expected to start as full-backs, although both looked fatigued in their last outing. At center-back, Ben Davies will partner Radu Drăgușin, who continues to deputize for the sidelined Van de Ven and Romero.
### **Midfield Shakeup**
James Maddison could be dropped after an underwhelming performance against Fulham, where he struggled with passing accuracy and failed to create significant chances. In his place, Postecoglou may reintroduce Dejan Kulusevski into the starting XI, adding more directness to the midfield.
Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr are expected to retain their positions as double pivots, given their strong displays in the previous match. Both players are crucial for maintaining defensive stability and progressing the ball forward.
### **Forward Line**
Brennan Johnson, who scored against Fulham, is likely to keep his place on the right wing. Despite Son Heung-min’s struggles, his leadership and goal-scoring ability make him a must-start on the left flank. Son’s form will be critical, especially with Richarlison and other forward options unavailable.
Through the middle, Postecoglou could persist with Kulusevski or rotate to accommodate a more flexible front three, depending on the match’s demands.
**Predicted XI (4-3-3):**
_Forster; Porro, Dragusin, Davies, Udogie; Sarr, Bissouma, Kulusevski; Johnson, Son, Solomon_
**Key Match Factors**
---------------------
### **Bournemouth’s Recent Form**
Bournemouth come into the game on the back of an impressive 4-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Justin Kluivert’s hat-trick of penalties highlighted their attacking potential, but their inconsistency—shown in prior losses to Brentford and Brighton—remains a concern.
### **Tottenham’s Challenges**
With a depleted squad, Spurs must be wary of Bournemouth’s slick attacking play and home advantage. Postecoglou will need his side to stay disciplined defensively while capitalizing on counterattacks.
**Match Prediction**
--------------------
This clash between two entertaining but inconsistent sides promises excitement. Bournemouth’s ability to exploit gaps in “bigger” teams’ defenses makes them a tough opponent, but Spurs’ attacking quality could also pose a significant threat.
**Prediction:** Bournemouth to win or draw (Double Chance).
**Kickoff:**
* Date: Thursday, December 5th, 2024
* Time: UK – 8:15 PM | US ET – 3:15 PM | US PT – 12:15 PM
* How to Watch:
* UK: Amazon Prime
* US: USA Network, Universo