Tottenham’s nightmare form seems to continue as they were knocked out of the EFL Cup by Liverpool, but Ange Postecoglou doesn’t have time to sit down and sulk. On Sunday, Spurs will face Aston Villa in the 4th Round of the FA Cup and this one’s going to be a crucial match that could determine the manager’s future.
Villa have made waves in the transfer market by signing big names like Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio, and if Spurs aren’t careful, they could suffer another early cup exit. It’s surprising that Postecoglou hasn’t been sacked yet, and he desperately needs a win at Villa Park to secure his job – at least till the end of this season.
Aston Villa have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches, which will give Tottenham some hope. However, Spurs’ away record has been dismal this season, with seven losses in 12 Premier League away games.
A victory on Sunday is crucial for restoring confidence because, in the coming matchweeks, Spurs will have to face Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea.
Tottenham Hotspur’s Team News & Injuries:
Radu Dragusin has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to an ACL injury, while Micky van de Ven remains a doubt for Sunday after missing the Liverpool game.
With both centre-backs unavailable, Kevin Danso will retain his place in central defence alongside Ben Davies.
Postecoglou is dealing with a massive injury crisis, with close to 12 first-team players unavailable. Ideally, he would like to rest some key players after the humiliating defeat to Liverpool, but that is not a luxury he can afford right now.
Lucas Bergvall replaced Pape Sarr in the second half against Liverpool, and Postecoglou may opt for this change in the middle of the pitch on Sunday.
Another major setback for Spurs is Richarlison’s suspected calf strain, which is a blow for both the player and the team, especially as he had just returned from an injury lay-off.
Postecoglou said on Thursday: “It’s disappointing for him and, you know, obviously, he was emotional last night because he worked really hard to get himself back. But again, it is another setback that he’s going to have to deal with, we’re going to have to deal with, and hopefully get him back as soon as possible.”
Richarlison joins Timo Werner and Dominic Solanke on the sidelines, but his absence will allow January signing Mathys Tel to make his full debut against Aston Villa.
Spurs Predicted Lineup vs Aston Villa:
Goalkeeper: Kinsky
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Danso, Ben Davies, Spence
Midfielders: Pape Sarr, Bissouma, Bentancur
Attackers: Kulusevski, Mathys Tel, Son
