After the excitement and drama of a Premier League away game, the focus for Tottenham Hotspur now shifts to a different kind of challenge.
The Carabao Cup might not have the same glamour as the league, but it offers something incredibly valuable: opportunity.
For a manager like Thomas Frank, this midweek match against League One side Doncaster Rovers is a perfect chance to look at his entire squad.
It’s a time to give important minutes to players who are eager to prove themselves, while also allowing some of the regular starters a well-earned rest. Let’s take a look at how Tottenham might line up for this cup tie.
In goal, we could see a change. The usual number one, Guglielmo Vicario, has been a reliable presence, but even the best goalkeepers can benefit from a break.
This opens the door for Antonin Kinsky to potentially make an appearance. Cup games are traditionally a time for the second-choice keeper to get some playing time, and it would be a great moment for Kinsky to step up and show what he can do in a competitive match.
The defense is likely to see several adjustments. At right-back, Djed Spence might come back into the team. He was on the bench for the Brighton game, so this is a chance for him to regain his rhythm and demonstrate his attacking energy down the flank.
In the heart of the defense, the ever-dependable Cristian Romero may still start to provide some leadership, but he could have a new partner. We might see a first start for Kevin Danso, giving the talented Micky van de Ven a chance to recover.
On the left side, the experienced Ben Davies is a strong candidate to slot in, offering stability and know-how in place of Destiny Udogie.
The midfield is where things get really interesting. This match is an ideal setting to give young Archie Gray a start in his preferred central role.
The manager has already spoken about wanting to give him more opportunities, and playing at home against lower-league opposition is the perfect environment for a youngster to grow.
Alongside him, the energetic Pape Matar Sarr could return. Having missed the last game, he will be fresh and ready to control the tempo.
Further forward, the in-form Lucas Bergvall might be given a more advanced role where his creativity and eye for goal can really shine.
In the attacking positions, there is room for experimentation. On the left wing, the new signing Xavi Simons could get another chance to start.
He is still adjusting to English football, and these minutes are priceless for building his confidence and understanding with his new teammates.
On the opposite side, Brennan Johnson is a likely starter, especially if Mohammed Kudus is rested after a busy start to the season. Johnson’s pace and direct running can cause any defense problems.
Leading the line, the striker position has a question mark. While Randal Kolo Muani might be back from injury, it may be safer to not risk him from the start.
This could open the door for someone like Mathys Tel to get a valuable opportunity to lead the attack and show his scoring instincts.
For the fans, this game is a chance to see the depth of the squad. It’s an opportunity to cheer on the future stars and the squad players who work hard every day in training.
For Thomas Frank, it’s a balancing act. He wants to win the game and advance in the competition, but he also needs to manage his players’ fitness for the long season ahead.
The predicted lineup shows a team that mixes experience with youth, aiming for a performance that is both professional and promising. The message is clear: while changes will be made, the expectation to win and put on a good show remains the same.
