Tottenham to be without 8 players vs. Liverpool – but 2 expected to return This Is Anfield

Tottenham will face Liverpool on Sunday with a heavily depleted squad, as manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed he will be without eight key players due to injuries and suspension. However, the team is expected to welcome back two players, Timo Werner and Destiny Udogie, offering a slight boost ahead of a crucial Premier League clash.

For Liverpool, manager Arne Slot will bring his side to north London with a relatively short injury list, missing only Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley. In contrast, Tottenham’s absences include Guglielmo Vicario, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Ben Davies, Wilson Odobert, Mikey Moore, Richarlison, and the suspended Rodrigo Bentancur. The injuries have left Spurs thin in defense, with 18-year-old Archie Gray likely to continue at center-back alongside a 36-year-old Fraser Forster in goal, whose confidence was rattled in the recent 4-3 win over Manchester United.

Postecoglou is optimistic about the returns of Werner and Udogie. Speaking in a press conference, he said, “Timo was unwell yesterday, so we’ve got 48 hours before the game. Hopefully, he’ll recover, and the plan is that Destiny should be okay.” Both players missed the midweek League Cup victory, but their availability would be a significant relief for Spurs as they look to address their defensive vulnerabilities.

Tottenham’s current form has been inconsistent, with their most recent league outing seeing them surrender a 2-0 lead to Chelsea. Despite sitting 10th in the Premier League table with 23 points, the team has struggled to find stability due to injuries and lapses in concentration. Their ability to hold off a late surge from Manchester United midweek was a testament to their resilience, but Liverpool presents a much tougher challenge.

Arne Slot, whose Liverpool side leads the league, spoke highly of Postecoglou’s style of play in his press conference, praising Tottenham’s attacking approach. “I admire the brand and style of football they play,” Slot said. “How can you be too attacking?” Slot’s comments highlighted the mutual respect between the managers, despite the competitive nature of the game ahead.

In response, Postecoglou expressed his appreciation for Slot’s remarks, acknowledging the challenges both managers face. “I appreciate the kind words from somebody who is making his own impact in the game. I think most fellow managers, whether they agree with my approach, will understand where I’m coming from. That respect is mutual for me,” he said.

The match against Liverpool comes at a critical juncture for Tottenham. With just three games left before the end of the year, they will need to stabilize their form if they want to climb the table and challenge for European places. Liverpool, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their momentum at the top of the league, knowing that a win would strengthen their advantage heading into the final stretch of the year.

Tottenham’s defensive issues will be under scrutiny once again, especially with four of their regular defenders unavailable. Archie Gray, who has been thrust into a center-back role during the injury crisis, has shown promise but is still learning the ropes. His partnership with Radu Dragusin in defense and Fraser Forster’s performance in goal will be pivotal against Liverpool’s potent attack.

On the offensive front, Tottenham will look to players like Heung-min Son and James Maddison to step up. Son, who scored a decisive goal directly from a corner against Manchester United, will be a key figure in leading Spurs’ attack. Maddison’s creativity and ability to unlock defenses could also play a crucial role in breaking through Liverpool’s backline.

For Liverpool, the absence of Konate in defense may provide Tottenham with opportunities, but the league leaders are known for their attacking depth and organization under Slot’s management. The game promises to be a high-stakes encounter between two teams with contrasting fortunes this season.

As the managers prepare their teams for Sunday’s showdown, all eyes will be on how Postecoglou addresses his team’s defensive frailties and whether Spurs can rise to the occasion against one of the league’s top sides. With limited options and a demanding fixture list, Tottenham’s resilience and tactical adaptability will be put to the test.