Spurs will be keen to get their challenge for a top four place back on track after their defeat to Palace, while Sunderland need to show a lot more than they have lately, as they have edged closer towards the relegation trap door.
To be played on Saturday 17th January 2015 at 15:00. Venue: White Hart Lane, London
Odds: Tottenham 8/13, Draw 16/5, Sunderland 5/1
Tottenham had been on a good run until they had been turned over by Crystal Palace. They are currently trying to negotiate a very busy period of fixtures, the latest of which saw seven changes from the side that lost at Selhurst Park, as Mauricio Pochettino’s side came from two goals down to beat Burnley in the FA Cup.
Spurs are currently three points off the top four so last weekend’s defeat was a bit of a blow but the damage is by no means irreparable at this stage of the season.
Sunderland are now perilously close to the relegation zone. Though they can be well organised at the back, they have looked utterly toothless in the final third, with last weekend’s defeat to Liverpool a classic example of that.
They have moved to address that by signing for Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe, who can play tomorrow at White Hart Lane, and has a reputation for scoring on his debut. The Black Cats really could do with a goal from the 32-year-old tomorrow.
They will, however, be without Liam Bridcutt who is suspended after being sent off in last weekend’s defeat to Liverpool.
“We are the team who have played more official games than anyone but it’s a good challenge for us. It’s for that it’s important to have the strong squad because you need players available to play.”
Mauricio Pochettino
“I know all about his [Defoe] attributes and his qualities first-hand and his exceptional goal-scoring record speaks for itself”
Gus Poyet
Tottenham injury news
Ryan Mason ★★ questionable hamstring
Erik Lamela ★★ questionable calf
Younes Kaboul ★★★ out illness
Vlad Chiriches ★★★ out back
Federico Fazio ★★ questionable illness
Sunderland injury news
Steven Fletcher ★★ questionable groin
Jack Rodwell ★★ questionable hamstring
Lee Cattermole ★★ questionable groin
Anthony Réveillere ★★ questionable calf
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