Postecoglou could consider 6 Spurs changes vs Ipswich with new-look attack
Wilson Odobert is likely to see more minutes this weekend as Tottenham Hotspur takes on Ipswich Town in a Premier League clash.
Ange Postecoglou’s team aims to secure their third consecutive league victory, following their hard-fought win against Manchester United last weekend. James Maddison scored the only goal in that match, marking a crucial response to recent eliminations from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
While Spurs remain seven points away from the top half of the table, this weekend offers an opportunity to close the gap as they face relegation-threatened Ipswich.
Ipswich Town has endured a challenging season, winning only three league games so far. However, their 1-1 draw against Aston Villa last weekend provided a glimmer of hope in their fight for survival.
With a midweek fixture against Manchester City looming, Postecoglou is expected to rotate his squad to keep players fresh for the demanding schedule ahead. Changes could be made across the pitch, as the manager assesses his options for Saturday’s afternoon kick-off.
Archie Gray could return to the starting lineup after being rested during the Manchester United game. The teenager replaced Kevin Danso late in that match and partnered with Ben Davies in central defense.
If Danso, who picked up a knock, is deemed unfit, Gray might step in at center-back or possibly replace Pedro Porro at right-back.
Destiny Udogie is another player who could feature prominently this weekend. Having gained another week of training, the Italian defender is likely to start, potentially replacing either Djed Spence or Pedro Porro.
Should Udogie take up his usual position at left-back, Spence might switch to his natural side to accommodate the tactical adjustment.
Yves Bissouma could also come into the fold, particularly if Rodrigo Bentancur requires rest after sustaining a knock against Manchester United.
With Manchester City next on the schedule, Postecoglou might opt to preserve key players like Bentancur for the more demanding clash against the reigning champions. Bissouma, eager for more game time, is a strong candidate to fill the midfield role.
Pape Matar Sarr presents another midfield option, potentially replacing Lucas Bergvall. The Senegalese midfielder played 26 minutes in the previous match and could see extended action to build momentum ahead of the midweek fixture. This move would allow Bergvall to take a breather and maintain his energy levels for upcoming challenges.
In attack, Brennan Johnson may get a chance to start, possibly in place of Dejan Kulusevski. The Swedish forward has been a constant presence in Tottenham’s lineup, featuring in all 40 of their matches this season.
With Postecoglou looking to rotate and manage player fatigue, Johnson’s inclusion would provide a fresh dynamic on the right flank and increase his pitch time.
Similarly, a change might occur on the left flank, where Son Heung-min has shouldered a heavy workload as captain. Despite his crucial contributions, Son could benefit from a rest, particularly with Manchester City on the horizon.
This opens the door for Wilson Odobert, who made his first appearance in nearly four months last weekend. The Frenchman, signed during the summer, could either start in place of Son or continue to build fitness with minutes off the bench.
Postecoglou faces a delicate balancing act as he navigates this busy period. With Ipswich Town providing a chance to secure valuable points, the Spurs manager will aim to strike the right blend of experience and fresh legs.
Decisions regarding rotation will be key in maintaining momentum while keeping players fit and prepared for the challenges ahead.