Opinion: Selecting Tottenham’s strongest XI when everyone is fit
Ange Postecoglou has added some exciting players to his Tottenham Hotspur squad this summer, and now, the Lilywhites have real strength in depth. But, who makes the starting XI when everyone is fit and firing on all cylinders?
The best XI for Spurs
For the sake of arguments, let’s say that in this hypothetical situation, every player in Postecoglou‘s squad is absolutely at the top of their game; no injury niggles, no dips in form, no problems. So, here’s what we’ve got.
Guglielmo Vicario: Perhaps the easiest call on the pitch. Vicario is leagues ahead of Fraser Forster, Brandon Austin, and Alfie Whiteman, and on his day, he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.
Pedro Porro: Despite the resurgence of Djed Spence, and the versatility of Archie Gray, there is no doubt that Porro is still the top right-back at the club. His recent surge in goals and assists make him one of the most creative players in the team now.
Cristian Romero: Arguably one of the very best centre-backs in the world right now. Romero not only has the necessary aggression, awareness, and athleticism to be incredibly hard to play against at the back, but he’s also started posing a goal threat, too. His improved composure and maturity have made him a brilliant leader in the Spurs squad.
Micky van de Ven: While Radu Dragusin is a commendable cover option at centre-back, you just cannot look past the raw pace van de Ven possesses, and how important that is when compensating for the high-line Spurs play.
Destiny Udogie: There is very little competition for Udogie at left-back right now, and that needs to change in the near future. Regardless, the young defender is a real threat going forward, and is a reliable presence at the back, too.
Yves Bissouma: This is where it gets a little more difficult, as Postecoglou has a number of great options in the middle of the park. But, when his attitude is right, and his head’s in the game, Bissouma can be the beating heart of the Spurs midfield.
Rodrigo Bentancur: One could argue that Pape Matar Sarr deserves to be in this lineup, but a fully-fit Bentancur is almost unplayable at times. His composure on the ball, combative nature, and ability to carry the ball forward make him a key asset.
James Maddison: Hasn’t quite been the same since his injury back in November of last year, but is still the main creative force in the Spurs squad. We’ve started to see the playmaker pulling the strings again this season, and he could be getting back to his best very soon.
Dejan Kulusevki: A tough one, as Brennan Johnson does genuinely offer a lot down the right-hand side, with his energetic pressing and low, driven crosses. But, Kulusevski has a bit more magic about him, and is also a better finisher.
Dominic Solanke: We’re yet to see enough of Solanke for Spurs, with the marksman getting injured on his debut. But, he’s a clinical finisher, he works hard in the press from the front, and is adept at holding up the ball. The prospect of him getting a run in the team is very exciting!
Heung-min Son: The Spurs skipper is a truly world-class player and a club legend. His dribbling, pace, finishing, and ability to use both feet make him absolutely unplayable on his day.
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