Tottenham Set to Shake Up Left Flank Against Villarreal as Frank Eyes Fresh Formation
Thomas Frank is gearing up for his inaugural experience of that legendary anthem and the spectacle that accompanies competing in the Champions League.
The Danish manager has made an encouraging beginning to his tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, with his squad heading into their opening match of the league phase following an uplifting 3–0 win away against West Ham United.
While Spurs aren't yet the complete package, they have rapidly transformed into a significantly more solid outfit that appears ready to compete with Europe's top teams this season. Frank faces the challenging responsibility of handling a demanding midweek fixture list in the coming period, and Tottenham's limited squad depth in crucial areas means the Danish coach will certainly need to make several adjustments from Saturday's success.
Here's how the home side might set up against Villarreal on Tuesday evening.
Tottenham Predicted Lineup vs. Villarreal (4-3-3)
GK: Guglielmo Vicario—While some questioned whether Vicario's position was secure heading into the campaign, he has begun brilliantly under Frank and represents one of numerous Spurs players who will be making their Champions League debut on Tuesday evening.
RB: Pedro Porro—Porro brings experience from the big stage with multiple clubs, including Spurs, and remains a Frank favorite due to his creative contributions from deeper positions.
CB: Cristian Romero—The Tottenham captain delivered an exceptional performance at the weekend and will aim to maintain that level heading into midweek action.
CB: Micky van de Ven—An unexpected scorer on Saturday, Van de Ven's fitness has remained intact thus far, though there will eventually come a moment when Frank must give his excellent Dutch center-back a break.
LB: Destiny Udogie—This selection might seem unfair to Djed Spence, but Udogie is positioned to return to Frank's starting eleven. The Italian's left-footed nature will provide better balance for Tottenham in possession.
CM: João Palhinha—The loan signing has rapidly split fan opinion, with some still criticizing his limitations in distribution. Nevertheless, Palhinha was brought in for specific reasons, and Frank plans to utilize him in Spurs' league phase debut.
CM: Lucas Bergvall—The manager cannot bench Bergvall following Saturday's display. At merely 19 years old, the potential is unlimited for the Swedish midfielder, who emerged during the latter part of last campaign.
CM: Xavi Simons—It was a composed first appearance from Simons on Saturday, though much more is expected. Frank might move the Dutch player to a central role after deploying him on the left wing at the London Stadium. Consequently, Pape Matar Sarr, who has been ever-present under the new boss, might be given a breather.
RW: Mohammed Kudus—Kudus has also been a constant presence, but Frank is unlikely to consider alternatives on Tuesday evening. While the winger didn't find the net at his former venue, Kudus still maintained his strong beginning in Tottenham colors.
ST: Richarlison—The forward came back fatigued from international duty and only appeared as a substitute. However, with Mathys Tel excluded from the league phase roster and Dominic Solanke sidelined with injury, Richarlison is certain to reclaim his starting position. Randal Kolo Muani should make his first appearance from the bench.
LW: Wilson Odobert—The left-side refresh concludes with Odobert's inclusion, who excels in one-versus-one situations and is skilled at manufacturing space in attacking areas. He's among several players who should prosper from Simons' addition.
