Predicted Tottenham XI to face Bodo/Glimt in Europa League semi-final
Tottenham Hotspur return to Europa League action against Bodo/Glimt, and they would be hoping to secure passage to the final by avoiding a heavy defeat at the Aspmyra Stadion. Let’s take a look at our predicted Tottenham XI to face the Norwegian side on Thursday.
Tottenham Hotspur will carry a valuable two-goal cushion into Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Bodo/Glimt, but the trip to Norway presents unique challenges for Ange Postecoglou’s men.
The artificial playing surface in Norway is unfamiliar territory for the north London club, and it is a factor that cannot be ignored in team selection.
Last week, we highlighted the importance of squad rotation when playing in Glimt’s stadium, particularly given the injury risks associated with playing on astroturf.
At least three changes were recommended, but with Tottenham struggling for form, they would still need to turn to a few of their established star.
So, here is our predicted Tottenham Hotspur starting XI for the second leg against Bodo/Glimt.
Predicted Tottenham Hotspur XI to face Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: Ange Postecoglou will once again turn to Guglielmo Vicario in goal on Thursday, and he will be hoping for a more composed showing from the Italian after a costly error against West Ham United.
Right-back – Pedro Porro: Pedro Porro was rested for the weekend clash at the London Stadium and should return to the starting line-up for this European tie.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero: Cristian Romero produced a solid performance in the second leg against Frankfurt when Tottenham needed to dig in defensively. A similar level will be needed against Bodo/Glimt.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: Ben Davies stepped in for Micky van de Ven at the weekend but struggled to impress. That should see van de Ven reinstated on Thursday night.
Left-back – Destiny Udogie: Djed Spence failed to track Jarrod Bowen for West Ham’s equaliser, and with that lapse in mind, Destiny Udogie is expected to reclaim his starting Tottenham spot.
Pivot midfielder – Yves Bissouma: With Lucas Bergvall ruled out for the remainder of the season, Yves Bissouma remains the only viable option in the pivot role. He should continue there in Norway.
Central midfielder – Rodrigo Bentancur: Rodrigo Bentancur has found form at just the right time. With both Bergvall and James Maddison sidelined, Bentancur’s presence is crucial, and he is nailed on to start for Tottenham.
Central midfielder – Dejan Kulusevski: With Maddison unavailable, Dejan Kulusevski becomes the natural replacement in the midfield three. He has struggled to rediscover his old spark, but he needs to step up now.
Left midfielder – Mathys Tel: Heung-min Son has returned to training, but remains a doubt for Thursday. Given the artificial surface, it is unlikely Postecoglou will risk him, so Mathys Tel should start on the Tottenham left.
Striker – Richarlison: Dominic Solanke missed the West Ham match, which saw Richarlison lead the line. If Solanke is still not fit, Richarlison will start up top again. Should Solanke return, then Richarlison could be deployed on the left.
Right midfielder – Brennan Johnson: Brennan Johnson continues to be Tottenham’s top scorer in both the league and in Europe. He scored early in the first leg and should keep his place on the right.
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