adminTottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi will be without several key players for his first match in charge, as Spurs prepare to face Sunderland in Sunday’s Premier League clash.
The north London side continue to deal with a lengthy injury list, with Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Rodrigo Bentancur, Guglielmo Vicario, Ben Davies, Wilson Odobert and Yves Bissouma all sidelined.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Kudus is also unavailable after undergoing surgery on a thigh issue that could impact his World Cup hopes.
There is, however, some positive news for De Zerbi, as Pape Matar Sarr and Mathys Tel have recovered from minor knocks and are back in contention. Tel, in particular, could feature on the right wing.
In attack, Richarlison may take up a role on the left as he looks to reach double figures in the league this season, while Dominic Solanke is expected to lead the line ahead of Randal Kolo Muani.
Xavi Simons, who struggled for opportunities under Igor Tudor, could be handed a more influential creative role and may start as the team’s number 10.
Midfield duties are likely to include Archie Gray alongside Joao Palhinha, though Sarr, Conor Gallagher and Lucas Bergvall provide additional options.
Defensively, Spurs can still rely on their preferred back line, but with Vicario not yet fit, Antonin Kinsky is set to start in goal.
Possible Tottenham lineup:
Kinsky; Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Destiny Udogie; Palhinha, Gray; Tel, Simons, Richarlison; Solanke
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