Tottenham Hotspur were held to a disappointing 2-2 draw by Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven in their matchday three of the Champions League. The draw also meant that Spurs would have no chance of making it to the knockout stages of the Champions League this season.
However, the Lilywhites have been in good form in the Premier League, winning seven out of their nine games. Pochettino’s men sit 5th in the standings, tied on points with Arsenal and Chelsea.
Manchester City registered a 3-0 win over Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League after a 5-0 drubbing of Burnley last weekend.
Although Pep Guardiola’s men have been in tremendous form this term in the Premier League, Spurs are only two points below the table toppers and that is exactly why Monday’s clash is bound to hold a lot of importance for both the teams.
However, Spurs will be looking to rescue at least a point from their home game, if not claim all three.
Mauricio Pochettino has had a tough time contending with injuries in the recent weeks. Jan Vertonghen is a long-term absentee while Danny Rose is not expected to make the bench for Monday’s clash.
Mousa Dembele and Christian Eriksen played in the Champions League on their return from injuries and will be available for selection on Monday.
Dele Alli is back in training but Pochettino is unlikely to risk him as he recurred a thigh injury a few weeks back.
He has been a bit inconsistent this season and got sent off in the Champions League but should start on Monday.
The English international is a valuable asset to the team both in terms of the defence and the attack and will play a key role against Manchester City.
His bizarre mistake cost the team a goal in the Champions League and he must aim to be a lot more compact on Monday.
The Colombian has blown hot and cold this season and will be up against it once again on Monday. However, Pochettino doesn’t have too many options to cover for Vertonghen’s absence.
Struggled to cope with the pace of Hirving Lozano in the Champions League but should start ahead of Danny Rose, who isn’t back to full fitness.
The Belgian looked good on his return from injury and played a number of good passes to initiate the build-up play from midfield. He will have his work cut out against Fernandinho.
He has been in good form in the recent games and Spurs will need him to cope with Fernandinho in the midfield.
The Brazilian had a good game in the Champions League and got himself a goal. Pochettino will need him to continue his good form into Monday’s fixture.
The Argentine has made a major impact in the final third since his return from injury and Pochettino should hand him a start ahead of Heung-Min Son.
Looked at his best in the previous game. Played some neat passes and assisted Kane for the second goal with a delightful cross. Spurs will need him to fire if they are to have any chance of getting a point out of Monday’s clash.
England’s golden boy has been in good scoring form this season and will hold the key to Spurs’ success against Manchester City.