Tottenham predicted lineup vs Burnley – Two changes with £26M star returns

Examining Tottenham’s performance this season sparks curiosity about where they might stand in the Premier League without grappling with significant injury setbacks. Following an impressive start under new manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs encountered a shaky phase but have clinched victory in four of their last five top-flight matches. They currently hover just outside the top four, trailing leaders Liverpool by a mere six points.

This weekend, Tottenham temporarily shifts focus from their Premier League duties as they host Burnley in the FA Cup third round on Friday night. Postecoglou likely harbors quiet confidence in his team, aiming to surpass last season’s FA Cup journey when Spurs were eliminated by then-Championship side Sheffield United in the fifth round.

On the opposite end, Burnley reached the quarter-finals last season before suffering a resounding 6-0 defeat by eventual champions Manchester City at the Etihad. Notably, Erling Haaland secured a hat-trick during that fixture.

Anticipation brews regarding the line-ups of both teams as they clash in north London on Friday night. Delving into their respective team news and anticipated XIs reveals intriguing insights.

Tottenham Team News

Tottenham faces the potential absence of up to 11 players in the FA Cup encounter against Burnley. Key figures like James Maddison and Cristian Romero remain sidelined, while international talents such as Pape Matar Sarr, Yves Bissouma, and Son Heung-min might be unavailable for nearly a month due to their participation in the African Cup of Nations and Asian Cup.

However, there’s a glimmer of positivity concerning summer signing Micky van de Ven, recovering from a hamstring injury sustained against Chelsea in November. Postecoglou hinted at his potential involvement, stating, “Micky van de Ven has trained with us… Not sure about tomorrow and whether he’ll be involved or not.”

Unfortunately, young striker Alejo Veliz faces an extended period out due to an injury sustained during the last weekend’s victory over Bournemouth. Postecoglou revealed the severity, mentioning, “Unfortunately Alejo [Veliz] was a fairly significant injury… It will keep him out for a couple of months.”

Alongside Veliz, long-term absentees like Ryan Sessegnon, Ivan Perisic, Manor Solomon, and Alfie Whiteman aren’t nearing a return to the first team. However, Dejan Kulusevski is set to rejoin the squad after serving a suspension.

Tottenham Predicted XI

Guglielmo Vicario; Pedro Porro, Emerson Royal, Ben Davies, Destiny Udogie; Oliver Skipp, Rodrigo Bentancur; Brennan Johnson, Giovani Lo Celso, Dejan Kulusevski; Richarlison.

Burnley Team News

Burnley, comparatively less plagued by injuries, still grapples with the absence of several key players. Luca Koleosho and Hjalmar Ekdal face potential season-long setbacks due to knee issues. Defender Jordan Beyer won’t feature in the upcoming match but eyes a return for a crucial game against Luton Town on January 15th.

Experienced midfielder Jack Cork awaits a late fitness test to determine his availability, while Sander Berge’s suspension from the previous game against Aston Villa leaves him unavailable.

Burnley Predicted XI

Jack Trafford; Vitinho, Hannes Delcroix, Dara O’Shea, Charlie Taylor; Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson, Aaron Ramsey, Josh Brownhill, Wilson Odobert; Lyle Foster, Zeki Amdouni.

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