King expects Ange to axe defender in four Tottenham changes v Arsenal

Brennan Johnson is likely to miss out when Tottenham Hotspur face Arsenal in the highly anticipated Premier League clash on Wednesday. Manager Ange Postecoglou will be eager to secure a positive result in this crucial North London derby at the Emirates Stadium on January 15, although Jamie Carragher has expressed skepticism about Tottenham’s chances in this tough fixture.

There has been some speculation about a potential postponement of the match due to adverse weather conditions. However, if the game proceeds as planned, former Spurs scout Bryan King has provided insight into the lineup changes Postecoglou might implement following Tottenham’s victory over Tamworth on January 12. Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, King shared his thoughts on the possible adjustments to the starting eleven.

King predicts that James Maddison is almost certain to retain his place in the lineup, given his reputation as a big-game performer. He expects Timo Werner and Mikey Moore to drop out of the starting eleven, with Dominic Solanke and Son Heung-min stepping in to lead the attack. Dejan Kulusevski is also anticipated to return, replacing Brennan Johnson to complete the front three.

In midfield, King suggests that Lucas Bergvall will not feature in the starting lineup. Instead, Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr are likely to play in more defensive roles behind Maddison, providing stability and creativity in the center of the park.

The backline is expected to remain largely unchanged from the match against Tamworth. However, there is one notable exception, with Sergio Reguilón set to make way for Djed Spence in the defensive setup.

This adjustment could add more pace and attacking support from the flanks, potentially giving Tottenham an edge in wide areas against their fierce rivals.

For Postecoglou, this match carries significant weight. The pressure on the Australian manager has been mounting in recent weeks, with fans growing increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction.

A victory against Arsenal would not only provide a morale boost but also alleviate some of the scrutiny surrounding his tenure. On the other hand, a defeat would exacerbate frustrations among the supporters, further intensifying the challenges Postecoglou faces in maintaining their confidence.

Team selection will be crucial for Postecoglou in this high-stakes encounter. With Arsenal in excellent form and boasting a strong record at home, Tottenham will need a well-balanced and dynamic lineup to compete effectively.

The inclusion of experienced players like Son and Maddison could provide the leadership and quality needed to thrive in such a demanding environment. Similarly, relying on the energy and defensive contributions of Bissouma and Sarr could help Tottenham manage Arsenal’s potent attacking threats.

This North London derby comes at a pivotal moment for Tottenham’s season. A win would not only boost their standing in the Premier League but also serve as a statement of intent under Postecoglou’s leadership.

It would offer a much-needed respite for a team seeking consistency and cohesion in their performances. Conversely, a loss would leave Tottenham with more questions than answers, further testing the patience of a fanbase desperate for tangible progress.

As the players prepare to take the field, all eyes will be on Postecoglou’s tactical approach and decision-making. Will he opt for a more conservative setup to counter Arsenal’s attacking prowess, or will he stick to an aggressive strategy aimed at exploiting weaknesses in their defense? These decisions could determine the outcome of a match that carries enormous implications for both sides.

Tottenham’s supporters will be hoping for a memorable performance that reignites their faith in the team’s direction. For Postecoglou, it’s an opportunity to silence critics and prove his ability to navigate the challenges of managing a high-profile club in one of football’s most intense rivalries.

The stakes are high, the pressure is palpable, and the stage is set for another dramatic chapter in the storied history of the North London derby.