Tottenham Hotspur are entering a crucial stretch in their Premier League campaign, and while the focus must remain on their upcoming matches against Everton and Newcastle, it’s hard to ignore what’s coming next a fierce London rivalry against Chelsea.
No matter how disciplined a team tries to be, the anticipation of facing a top club like Chelsea inevitably lingers in the back of every player’s mind.
Despite Tottenham’s tendency to raise their game against top-tier opposition, they don’t seem fully prepared for a team as stacked as Chelsea.
Their recent performances against sides like Wolves and Bodo Glimt have revealed inconsistencies that could prove costly when facing stronger opponents.
With Chelsea in fine form and Tottenham struggling to convert chances, the match scheduled for November 1 looks set to be a massive test for Thomas Frank’s men.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed through Fabrizio Romano that striker Liam Delap will miss their next match but should return in time for the Tottenham clash.
Chelsea face Sunderland in the Premier League this weekend, followed by a League Cup fixture against Wolves midweek. If Delap features in that cup tie, it will give him just enough rhythm and sharpness to start against Spurs.
Tottenham’s defensive worries make matters worse. Their defensive leader, Cristian Romero, remains doubtful for the Chelsea game as he continues his recovery from injury.
His absence has been deeply felt, particularly in disappointing showings against Aston Villa and Monaco. Without him, Tottenham’s backline, featuring Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven, has looked unconvincing and at times disorganized under pressure.
Delap’s return could be a game-changer for Chelsea. The young striker has quickly established himself as one of the most promising forwards in the Premier League. His presence not only brings goals but also transforms the way Chelsea attack.
With Delap leading the line, Joao Pedro is free to drop deeper, creating space and linking play in more creative areas. This flexibility makes Chelsea far more dynamic and unpredictable going forward.
The upcoming London derby promises to be intense, with Chelsea’s attack regaining strength at the exact moment Tottenham’s defense is under strain.
Delap’s return tilts the balance slightly in Chelsea’s favor, especially given his form during the Club World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in their success. Tottenham will need to rediscover their composure quickly if they hope to withstand the Blues’ renewed firepower.
As the countdown to November 1 continues, one thing is clear this clash is shaping up to be a defining moment for both sides.
