Predicted Tottenham XI to face Wolves – Postecoglou makes seven changes

As Tottenham Hotspur prepare for their Premier League encounter against Wolverhampton Wanderers this Sunday, manager Ange Postecoglou faces a delicate balancing act. With their league position offering little incentive and a crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg looming, squad rotation appears inevitable.

Here’s our comprehensive analysis of the likely starting XI and the tactical considerations behind Postecoglou’s selection dilemma.

Current Premier League Standings (Key Teams)

Before examining the predicted lineup, let’s consider the broader context of Tottenham’s league position:

This table illustrates how little separates mid-table teams, though Tottenham’s focus has clearly shifted to European competition.

Predicted Starting XI and Tactical Breakdown

Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario

The Italian shot-stopper remains Tottenham’s undisputed first choice. While rotation might be tempting, maintaining consistency in goal provides defensive stability during this transitional period.

Defensive Line

Center-Backs:

• Ben Davies (for Cristian Romero)
• Romero’s importance for the Europa League makes him too valuable to risk
• Davies offers experience and positional awareness
• Archie Gray (for Micky van de Ven)
• The young defender has impressed in limited opportunities
• Van de Ven’s recovery pace will be crucial in Europe

Full-Backs:

• Pedro Porro (Right)
• Despite defensive concerns, his attacking output remains valuable
• Alternative: Sergio Reguilón for fresh legs
• Likely starter on Left
• Decision between resting first-choice or maintaining rhythm

Midfield Trio

This balanced midfield provides:

• Bissouma’s ball-winning ability
• Sarr’s dynamic movement
• Maddison’s chance creation

Attacking Unit

Right Wing: Mathys Tel

• Scored his first Premier League goal recently
• Allows Son Heung-min crucial rest before European fixture

Striker: Dominic Solanke

• Needs confidence-boosting performance
• Richarlison can be impactful substitute

Left Wing: Wilson Odobert

• Fresh after being rested midweek
• Direct running will trouble Wolves’ defense

Key Strategic Considerations

1. European Prioritization

• Tottenham’s +13 goal difference provides cushion against relegation threats
• Europa League offers tangible success and potential Champions League qualification

1. Opponent Analysis

• Wolves sit just 5 points behind Spurs
• Their desperation for points makes them dangerous opponents
• Tottenham must match their intensity despite rotated lineup

1. Player Management

• Avoiding burnout for key players like Son and Romero
• Giving opportunities to fringe players to prove their worth
• Maintaining competitive edge despite “dead rubber” perception

Potential Game-Changing Substitutes

Postecoglou will likely have these options available from the bench:

• Son Heung-min – Instant goal threat if needed
• Rodrigo Bentancur – Midfield control
• Brennan Johnson – Pace against tiring defenders

This predicted lineup represents a pragmatic approach from Postecoglou – respecting the Premier League fixture while clearly prioritizing European success. The inclusion of Gray, Tel, and Odobert showcases Tottenham’s promising young talent, while experienced heads like Davies and Maddison provide necessary stability.

While the match may lack significance in Tottenham’s league campaign, it serves as an important opportunity for squad players to state their case for more prominent roles. The performance could also provide valuable momentum heading into their crucial European clash.

Tottenham fans should expect a competitive showing at Molineux, but one that undoubtedly keeps Thursday’s continental challenge firmly in mind. The club’s strategic planning for next season begins now, with these final league matches offering valuable evaluation opportunities before what promises to be a transformative summer.