Tottenham Hotspur were flying high after a 3-1 win against Chelsea but a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the north London derby brought them crashing down to the earth.
Mauricio Pochettino’s men slipped to 4th in the Premier League standings as a result of that derby day debacle and the Lilywhites will be looking to get back to winning ways when they play host to Southampton on Wednesday night.
Southampton played out an impressive 2-2 draw against United at St.Mary’s last week but that wasn’t enough to save Mark Hughes’ job after some consistently disappointing performances this season.
Spurs will be without the services of Jan Vertonghen who is suspended after being sent off for a second bookable offence against Arsenal. Mousa Dembele (ankle), Victor Wanyama (knee) and Davinson Sanchez (thigh) are all ruled out while Erik Lamela will be pushing for a return.
Toby Alderweireld was on the bench for the last game but is expected to be fit enough to start on Wednesday while Kieran Trippier is doubtful to make it to the matchday squad as he continues his recovery from a groin injury.
The Frenchman hasn’t really been at his best between the sticks this season and Spurs will need him to step up his game.
He did well against Chelsea and Inter Milan but was well below par against Arsenal and he will need to put in an improved performance in the mid-week clash.
The youngster has shown plenty of character in recent weeks but he needs more time to adjust to the Premier League.
He started the last game from the bench but he should be fit it time to make it to the starting eleven this time around.
The Welshman wasn’t at the top of his game against Arsenal and will need to improve.
The Englishman scored a goal in the last game but let his team down at the back several times.
The Frenchman has done really well in recent weeks against Chelsea and Inter, outmuscling the opposition with his strength, winning the ball and has carried the ball forward with purpose.
His presence in a slightly deep position has allowed Spurs to control proceedings in the midfield and build-up the play from the central areas of the park.
He produced a masterclass against Chelsea but wasn’t at his best against Spurs and the Lilywhites will need him to be more consistent.
England’s golden boy netted in the derby from the spot but didn’t have the supply to wreak havoc through the opposition’s defence.
He showed a lot of promise with his pace and dribbling in the last game and Pochettino should hand him another start ahead of Lucas Moura.