Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City Preview: Top Of The Table Clash
In a top of the table clash, Spurs take on Manchester City in a game of the best defense against the best attack. While it may be too early to call it a title-decider, it still promises to be a thrilling game that could either halt City’s momentum or boost Spurs’. Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City could also see the north London side to take first points away from Guardiola era City.
Team News
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham have made a steady strong start to the campaign. Spurs who had a long and gruelling away trip to Moscow in the Champions League will have a few heavy legs.
While talisman Harry Kane misses out, the trio of Eric Dier, Moussa Dembele and Danny Rose face assessments. Moussa Sissoko is another possible absentee for the Lillywhites.
Manchester City
Manchester City are the only team in the Premier League with a 100 per cent record. The citizens also had a pulsating away trip to Scotland in the Champions League and will be feeling a bit fatigued. Vincent Kompany remains a doubt as he recovers from a string of injuries.
Fabian Delph and Nolito also miss out due to injury and suspension respectively. City will be without some key attacking stars, with Kevin de Bruyne injured. The Belgian has been in imperious form and his absence will be a big blow for the visitors.
Key Battles
Sergio Aguero vs Vincent Janssen
Sergio Aguero has been on fire in the Premier League this season. The Argentine is in the form of his life and the Spurs backline will be faced with the huge task of containing him.
His counterpart has the big boots of Harry Kane to fill. Janssen arrived from the Eredivisie and has taken a while to settle in. He still looks off the pace a bit and will have to be supported by his midfielders.
Fernandinho vs Victor Wanyama
Two world class midfielders face off. Both are excellent at breaking up play and initiating attacks. Fernandinho has been quietly excellent under Guardiola becoming a vital cog in the team.
Wanyama adds a physical element to the Spurs midfield and is also a good target for set pieces. Interesting battle to see who comes out on top.
David Silva vs Christian Eriksen
Guardiola has preferred to play Silva from a deeper role this season. The Spaniard has been excellent in orchestrating play.
Eriksen is also a quality player and Spurs will be looking to his influence in midfield. Both the attacking midfielders will be important to provide chances to their forwards and could perhaps change the course of the game at any time.
The match is likely to be a big barometer for both sides too. A highly awaited contest, Spurs vs City is a matchup between the top two teams. Guardiola will no doubt be looking to continue his great start to the season whereas Pochettino and his men will look to spoil the party.
Picture Courtesy: BBC, Hitc
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