Champions League woe behind them, it has been a strong start to the campaign for Tottenham Hotspur, much to the delight of the Spurs fans in the Transfer Tavern.
Amid the circus conducted in Manchester over the course of the summer, the North London outfit were largely forgotten, though are keeping up with the pack in the opening stages.
Now, Mauricio Pochettino has a strong squad to choose from, rather than simply a nailed-on XI expected to adapt to his demanding brand of football.
Still, Harry Kane’s lengthy absence will undoubtedly come as a blow to those on Hotspur Way, with the England international both the poster boy and the spearhead of their attack.
However, the nature of their summer business has at least allowed the Argentine to call on other options.
With that in mind, perhaps the trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday is the best chance to showcase just how clever their summer business is.
Without further ado, here’s the Tottenham XI to beat Boro on Saturday.
GK: Hugo Lloris
One of the best stoppers in the Premier League, Hugo Lloris is vital between the sticks.
RB: Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker is absolutely crucial to Pochettino and will want to further establish himself as England’s first-choice right-back.
Expect him to break behind enemy lines.
CB: Jan Vertonghen
Absolutely solid, the threat of Alvaro Negredo will be little match for the Belgian and his compatriot on the next side.
CB: Toby Alderweireld
Much the same as Vertonghen.
His diagonal balls to Janssen can wreak havoc.
LB: Danny Rose
Having signed a new deal at the club, the England international will be a bundle of energy as always.
CDM: Victor Wanyama
Though not the most expansive passer in the world, Victor Wanyama is the ideal midfield lynchpin to deploy in an away game.
CDM: Mousa Dembele
The importance of Mousa Dembele’s return to the side cannot be understated and the bruising Belgian is both formidable and fantastic in equal measure.
RM: Heung-min Son
After an inconsistent first season, it’s time for the South Korean to step up.
Has looked good so far this term.
CAM: Dele Alli
Super Dele Alli is yet to hit top gear this season, with tomorrow’s game at the Riverside the perfect chance to.
LM: Erik Lamela
Key in both attacking and defensive senses to the club, Lamela’s guile and grit will be needed to break down a dogged home defence.
ST: Vincent Janssen
After scoring against Gillingham, it’s time for the Dutchman to step up after playing second fiddle to Kane.
Has looked up to the physical battles thus far, but now must prove he can finish chances.
