Antonio Conte is likely to make a number of changes to his Tottenham side after watching Spurs lose to Wolves last time out – as the Londoners travel north to The Etihad ahead of Saturday evening’s Premier League clash.
Spurs have suffered three straight defeats in the Premier League, diminishing their chances of finishing in the top four. Antonio Conte spoke of feeling a 1% chances of achieving Champions League qualification.
It was a dismal defensive display from Spurs on Sunday, and Conte might revert to the three-man midfield that performed well against Leicester City earlier this year – resulting in a late 3-2 win over Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Eric Dier is back from a groin injury and has been training all week. The England international has been crucial to Tottenham when fit, and is likely to be re-inserted into the side as soon as possible – Saturday evening.
Four changes: Who comes in, who will Tottenham boss Conte axe?
Sergio Reguilon was not spotted in Tottenham training this week and with Ryan Sessegnon subbed off last time out after 30 minutes – a more-defensive option on the left is needed. Ben Davies might have to deputise.
It could see Joe Rodon come in, who played on the left of a back three during his time at Swansea City. Senior Tottenham players have been pushing Conte to start the Wales international at the back.
So, Rodon and Dier are likely to come in. Emerson Royal could also come in on the right, with £65k-a-week (Spotrac) Matt Doherty’s form questionable. A three-man midfield might see Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg come in.
A 3-5-2 system might be ideal against Manchester City, who play narrowly. Here is our predicted XI – in come Dier, Rodon, Emerson and Hojbjerg and out go Davinson Sanchez, Sessegnon, Doherty and Lucas Moura.
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