A familiar storyline will unfold this Boxing Day as Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur visits Nottingham Forest, led by former Spurs manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
This encounter promises intrigue as Nottingham Forest enjoys a stellar 2024/25 campaign, defying expectations to sit in the coveted final Champions League position.
Initially tipped to struggle at the lower end of the Premier League table, Forest has exceeded all predictions. Under Nuno’s leadership, they have turned their fortunes around, sparking dreams of a European return at the City Ground. Their recent form is formidable, having claimed victories over Manchester United and Aston Villa, extending their winning streak to three matches. Tottenham, meanwhile, comes off a chaotic 3-6 defeat to Liverpool, exposing both their attacking firepower and defensive vulnerabilities. Postecoglou’s men must regroup quickly to keep pace with the league’s frontrunners.
The key question heading into the 3 PM kick-off at the City Ground centers around Tottenham’s lineup. Several tactical adjustments and fitness updates may shape Postecoglou’s decisions as he aims to restore momentum after last weekend’s disappointment.
Rodrigo Bentacur’s Return and the First Scenario
Tottenham’s Christmas cheer comes in the form of reinforcements, with Rodrigo Bentancur returning from suspension and Destiny Udogie expected to reclaim his spot. Pedro Porro, having played the most minutes among Spurs players this season, might finally earn a rest. This scenario could see Djed Spence switch back to the right flank to face his former club, where he enjoyed a successful loan spell.
In midfield, Bentancur’s return offers Postecoglou multiple options. The Uruguayan’s inclusion could lead to a reshuffle involving Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, or James Maddison. Further up the pitch, Brennan Johnson’s energy and fresh legs may provide the spark needed. The manager must decide whether to rest Son Heung-min or Dominic Solanke, with Dejan Kulusevski potentially stepping into a midfield role.
Possible lineup: Forster; Spence, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie; Sarr, Bentancur, Maddison; Kulusevski, Solanke, Johnson.
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Second Scenario
Fresh legs could be vital for Tottenham after an unchanged lineup faltered against Liverpool. Bentancur’s availability following his seven-match ban is a significant boost, and Udogie’s anticipated return adds defensive stability. Guest predicts Udogie stepping in for Porro, with Spence shifting to the right.
Bentancur’s presence might push Bissouma to the bench, allowing for a dynamic midfield trio featuring Maddison and Sarr. Johnson, having been rested recently, seems poised to start, replacing Son. Maddison and Kulusevski’s strong form makes them indispensable in the attack.
Second lineup: Forster; Spence, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie; Bentancur, Sarr, Maddison; Kulusevski, Solanke, Johnson.
Third Scenario
Wilmot highlights the challenge of balancing form and fitness when selecting a lineup. Fraser Forster is expected to start in goal, with Porro maintaining his position at right-back. However, Udogie’s inclusion at left-back could manage Spence’s workload, given his recent contributions.
In midfield, Bentancur joins Sarr and Maddison, providing a mix of creativity and defensive solidity. Despite calls for Johnson to replace Son, Postecoglou will persist with the South Korean star alongside Kulusevski and Solanke.
Third lineup: Forster; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie; Sarr, Bentancur, Maddison; Kulusevski, Solanke, Son.
Key Talking Points
Postecoglou faces tough decisions as he seeks a balance between fresh legs and maintaining form. The defensive structure remains a concern, especially against a confident Nottingham Forest side. Spence’s potential return to the right-back role adds intrigue, as he faces his former teammates in a high-stakes encounter.
The midfield battle will be crucial. Bentancur’s return provides composure and vision, but the supporting cast—whether Bissouma, Sarr, or Maddison—must step up to control the tempo. In attack, Johnson’s potential inclusion adds unpredictability, but Solanke and Kulusevski must shoulder the scoring burden if Son is rested.
Final Thoughts
With Forest riding high and Spurs desperate to bounce back, this Boxing Day clash promises drama and intensity. Postecoglou’s tactical acumen and ability to galvanize his squad could determine whether Tottenham leaves the City Ground with three points or faces further setbacks in their pursuit of a top-four finish. Fans will be eager to see if the adjustments pay dividends and reignite Spurs’ campaign.
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