By Matt Smith
Ange Postecoglou’s side are facing their final opportunity to win a trophy with the Premier League out of reach and them being out of every other competition. AZ have already reached a domestic final this season, but the Europa League is the real test for them.
Spurs will have confidence heading into this game having faced AZ earlier in the campaign, securing a 1-0 victory thanks to a Richarlison penalty.
Alkmaar without attacking quartet
Alkmaar are expected to be without attacking quartet Mexx Meerdink, Ruben van Bommel, Jayden Addai and Sven Mijnans for the home leg against Tottenham in the Europa League.
Former Tottenham striker Troy Parrott has been in and out of the side over the last few months, but with fewer options going forward, he could cement a regular place in the starting XI for the time being.
Former Spurs man flying for Alkmaar
Tottenham sold young striker Parrott to Alkmaar in the summer transfer window, and they could live to regret that after being drawn against them in this competition. The Republic of Ireland international has struck 17 times in all competitions this season, and he’s been a key provider in the Europa League.
Parrott has struck four times in Europe this term, providing a singular assist, scoring three times in his last four games in the competition. The 23-year-old may have a little extra motivation on Thursday night, looking to prove a point against his former club.
Tottenham dealt Kulusevski blow
Reports emerged earlier this week that Dejan Kulusevski had suffered a foot injury, with Postecoglou dealt yet another blow. Later confirmed by the club, the Swedish international had already posted a picture online wearing a protective boot.
In better news, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Dominic Solanke appear to be edging closer to full fitness, with Postecoglou’s squad starting to get back in better shape overall.
Maddison to step up again
If Kulusevski is unavailable, Tottenham will need James Maddison to step up once again in the attacking midfield position. The England international scored and provided an assist against Hoffenheim in the final League Phase match.
No player has produced more assists than Maddison for Spurs in the Europa League this season, and with Kulusevski potentially unavailable, the pressure will be on him to be the creative option in the middle of the park for Postecoglou’s side.
Prediction
Playing away from home in the opening leg, a draw wouldn’t be the worst for Spurs. The north London outfit have plenty of games to play before the international break, so we could see some rotation.
We’re going for a 1-1 draw in the Netherlands.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
You can follow every game from the Europa League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, player ratings, and a new super-intuitive knockout stage bracket. Download the free app here.
