CM: Eric Dier
Dier has been one of the surprise stars of the 2015-16 Premier League season. Playing in defensive midfield, the young Englishman is now one of the first names on Pochettino’s teamsheet. He has missed just one game in all competitions – and that was enforced by suspension.
CM: Mousa Dembele
Injuries to Ryan Mason and Nabil Bentaleb, plus Dier’s suspension, forced Pochettino to play Dembele in defensive midfield against Liverpool last month. He excelled in a 0-0 draw with the Reds, earning him another start against Bournemouth. He then scored in the 5-1 win over the Cherries.
The former Fulham star’s recent form makes him a prime candidate to partner Dier tonight. Mason is fit to start, having made his return from injury at Bournemouth last weekend, but the England midfielder is likely to be on the bench, with a place in Thursday’s starting XI potentially on the cards.
AM: Erik Lamela
Lamela has been rejuvenated this season. His four goals in all competitions make his Tottenham’s joint-top scorer, alongside Harry Kane.