Maddison returns, Tel switch – The Spurs team Postecoglou must select vs United

Tottenham Hotspur prepares to face Manchester United in a clash of underperforming Premier League giants this Sunday. With just one point separating the teams, they find themselves uncomfortably positioned in 13th and 14th place, far from the ambitions both clubs set at the season’s start.

The match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium offers a chance for either side to regain some semblance of form and momentum, with the stakes high for both managers.

Tottenham’s recent form has been inconsistent at best. A 2-0 victory against Brentford temporarily halted a disappointing league run, but subsequent exits from the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, courtesy of Aston Villa and Liverpool, have further dented the morale of Ange Postecoglou’s squad.

The Australian manager has been grappling with a threadbare team due to a slew of injuries, but there’s hope that some key players could return to training ahead of this critical fixture.

For Postecoglou, who has endured a rare week without a midweek match, the return of even a few key players could be the lift his struggling side desperately needs.

The debate surrounding Tottenham’s starting lineup remains a hot topic. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, known for his leadership and composure, is expected to return to the starting XI to shore up the defense.

Ben Davies is likely to partner with Kevin Danso in central defense, while the versatile Archie Gray, who has impressively filled gaps in various positions during this injury crisis, could finally move into his preferred midfield role. However, some argue that Gray might benefit from a rest after his relentless contributions this season.

In midfield, James Maddison’s potential return could provide a creative spark that Tottenham has sorely missed. Maddison’s ability to unlock defenses might prove crucial against a Manchester United side also battling inconsistency.

The inclusion of Yves Bissouma could further solidify the midfield after his impactful cameo against Aston Villa, while Pape Matar Sarr’s solid track record against United might earn him a starting spot. These combinations aim to strike a balance between creativity and control in the center of the pitch.

In attack, Mathys Tel has impressed with his versatility, but his performances suggest he thrives most in a central role.

This adjustment could free up Son Heung-min to exploit spaces down the left flank, where his pace and cutting-edge finishing could trouble United’s defense.

Dejan Kulusevski, operating from the right, completes a front three that looks capable of causing problems for United’s backline. Tel’s presence through the middle allows Postecoglou to maximize his attacking options while keeping the lineup fresh.

The return of Destiny Udogie to full fitness remains uncertain, so Pedro Porro and Djed Spence are expected to retain their roles as full-backs for now.

Their overlapping runs and defensive responsibilities will be vital, especially against a United side boasting attacking threats of their own.

The Spurs defense, which has struggled with cohesion in recent weeks, must find a way to neutralize United’s forward line while providing the platform for their own creative players to flourish.

Postecoglou faces a selection dilemma with so many variables at play, but his decisions will be critical in shaping the outcome of this match. The stakes are high for the Spurs boss, who has faced growing pressure in recent weeks.

A strong performance and result against a fellow underperformer could buy him some breathing room and set the tone for the rest of the season.

For Manchester United, the story is strikingly similar. They, too, have underwhelmed, struggling to string together consistent performances despite the significant resources at their disposal.

Like Tottenham, they will view this fixture as an opportunity to turn their fortunes around. Both teams are desperate to climb the table and avoid being drawn into a relegation scrap, making this clash more than just a battle for three points.

The outcome of this match could hinge on small margins. Whether it’s a moment of brilliance from Maddison, a decisive save from Vicario, or a clinical finish from Son, both teams will need their key players to step up.

Tottenham’s ability to manage their midfield battle and exploit United’s vulnerabilities on the flanks will likely play a significant role in determining the result.

As the Lilywhites prepare to face Ruben Amorim’s side, the stakes are clear. This is more than a typical mid-season fixture—it’s a chance for both clubs to salvage some pride and restore faith among their fans.

For Tottenham, a victory could serve as a catalyst for a turnaround under Postecoglou, providing the momentum needed to tackle the challenges ahead.