Tottenham team selection: Sissoko to start with Son on the bench – the reasoning

It is no secret that Son Heung-min has been one of the standout players of Tottenham Hotspur’s season to date.

The winger has 11 goals and eight assists in all competitions, but Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino may want to consider benching the South Korean star for Tuesday night’s Champions League clash with Juventus.

That is not at all to detract from Son, who scored three times for Tottenham in the group stages of the competition, but the Old Lady will provide a stern examination, particularly on their own patch.

Defensive stability is an absolute must for Spurs and Pochettino and he may look to start with Moussa Sissoko in the South Korean’s place, who arguably offers more going back towards his own goal.

Having signed from Newcastle United in the summer of 2016, the Frenchman endured a torrid first campaign in North London but this time around has been one of the more regular features in the side.

He has featured in 24 of Tottenham’s 27 Premier League matches and his versatility means that he is capable of playing on either side of the midfield as well as in the centre.

Starting Sissoko on the right, with Christian Eriksen on the left, gives Pochettino two inverted wingers and would make the centre of the park more congested.

This would hopefully crowd out Miralem Pjanic, who is arguably the biggest influence in the Juventus side with his ability to dictate the tempo from deep.

Sissoko would also provide cover on Tottenham’s right, a concern considering Alex Sandro’s ability to bomb on from left-back and Douglas Costa’s possible inclusion on the wing for the Turin outfit.

Champions League ties are frequently tight, tactical affairs and it is unlikely that either manager will want to see an overly open or expansive game, particularly given that it is only the first leg.

Son will no doubt be included in the return tie at Wembley in March but it is important to remember that progress will not be sealed on Tuesday and it is vital to stay in the contest.

2 thoughts on “Tottenham team selection: Sissoko to start with Son on the bench – the reasoning”

  1. SISSOKO you are a nut case anybody else but him.
    Unless he knows he’s gonna play the game of his life and score 3. He can stay there with llorente after game. Lol

Comments are closed.