Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho (Getty Images)
Tottenham could close the gap on fourth-placed Chelsea to just one point when they return to Premier League action away to Aston Villa on Sunday.
Jose Mourinho’s side are unbeaten in their last six outings across all competitions but they slipped down to sixth during their mid-season break. Spurs head into Sunday’s contest off the back of a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over Manchester City at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Their opponents, Aston Villa, are 17th in the table and just a point above the relegation zone.
Giovani Lo Celso missed the last game due to a muscle problem but he could return at Villa Park. Erik Lamela also missed the FA Cup replay against Southampton due to a muscular injury, but he too could recover in time for this weekend.
Ben Davies, who has been out with an ankle/foot injury since being subbed off against West Ham on 23rd November, is looking to get up-to-speed in time to face the Villans.
Lloris has returned back stronger from a shoulder injury and will be in goal on Sunday.
Aurier has blown hot and cold throughout the campaign but he is Mourinho’s best option at right-back.
A leader at the back, Alderweireld will have to be at his best to keep the home side at bay on Sunday.
The Colombian has been given his chances by Mourinho but is yet to make a major impact for the team. He would start in central defence against Aston Villa.
Tanganga has impressed in an unusual role at left-back in the last few weeks. The youngster is certain to retain his position in Mourinho’s starting XI.
Winks will be the one to orchestrate Tottenham’s attacks from the middle of the park.
Lo Celso has been influential of late, dictating the tempo of games with his distribution skills. He should partner Winks in central midfield.
One of the undoubted starters in the Tottenham line-up, Son’s excellent dribbling and pace could cause problems to the Villa defenders.
Alli is an intelligent player who picks up spaces in important areas and hurts the opponents.
The Dutchman had a debut to remember against Manchester City, although he did appear to pull up injured late in the second half.
With Kane out injured, Moura will be leading the attack by playing as the lone striker at the weekend.
