Chris Sutton predicts Tottenham v Crystal Palace score in a ‘nuisance’ London derby

Chris Sutton has branded Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming London derby against Crystal Palace a game ‘both clubs can almost forget about’.

Tottenham have been known in the past to prioritse the Premier League over any other competition. However, with nothing left to play for except pride and a Europa League final on the horizon, this match will feel more irrelevant than most.

Spurs already have the odds stacked against them, as their record in league matches directly after playing in Europe leaves much to be desired.

In these matches, Ange Postecoglou’s team have picked up 12 points out of a possible 39. This includes three victories and draws each and seven defeats. One of these defeats was against Crystal Palace earlier in the season, when the Eagles were in the relegation zone.

Chris Sutton highlights a key concern for Tottenham

Chris Sutton does not seem too enthusiastic about Sunday’s all-London clash. He believes the match is of little importance to either side, and for the hosts, it is a real inconvenience due to the injuries in the Spurs squad.

He told BBC Sport: “Both clubs can almost forget about this game, really. It is a bit of a nuisance for both of them.

“Tottenham’s season rests on what happens in the Europa League final on 21 May, while for Crystal Palace it is all about the FA Cup final next weekend.

“Eagles boss Oliver Glasner went strong with his team selection against Forest last week and if he does the same here then I can see a Palace victory. They don’t have much to play for, though, because win or lose they look likely to finish in their usual position – 12th.

“Spurs are still having a stinker of a time with injuries, with James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall both set to miss the rest of the season, and that situation hardly helps Ange Postecoglou with the side he picks.

It is hard to make a call without knowing who will play but, all things considered, the most likely outcome is probably a draw.”

Sutton’s prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Crystal Palace

Spurs coped without James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall in the Europa League

Tottenham may be missing key players in James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall, but that did not matter on Thursday night. A 5-1 victory on aggregate against Bodø/Glimt was sealed, with Pedro Porro in particular, putting in a fine display.

However, the lack of meaning to the game against Crystal Palace is a valid point. It would be surprising if Postecoglou fielded a full first-team, which raises question marks over Tottenham’s ability to perform.

On a positive note, players such as Wilson Odobert and Kevin Danso, who have received praise from Spurs supporters, could get another opportunity to showcase their abilities.

The post Chris Sutton predicts Tottenham v Crystal Palace score in a ‘nuisance’ London derby appeared first on Spurs Web.