IT’S going to be a big ask for Tottenham to ensure today is not a classic case of after the Lord Mayor’s show.
And if key midfielder Moussa Sissoko doesn’t make a miraculous recovery, then their task is going to be doubly difficult.
Withdrawn in Wednesday’s Champions League thriller with a groin injury, Spurs could have problems if he is not fit to contain a rampant Kevin De Bruyne.
The Belgian picks up dangerous positions in between the midfield and defence — as shown with Bernardo Silva and Sergio Aguero’s goals in midweek.
It’s a challenge for anyone to contain De Bruyne when at his best — but Spurs’ hopes are mainly with Sissoko.
He’s one of the most improved players in the league, who not only drives his team forward with real energy but also has great defensive presence.
Dele Alli moved back alongside Victor Wanyama when the Frenchman went off and he could be tasked with it again. Dele enjoys those deeper positions, it allows him more time to get on the ball and drive or pick a pass.
But if he plays in there it’s going to be all about what he does out of possession.
He has to ensure any gaps between him, Wanyama and the centre-backs are closed off — so De Bruyne can’t get into those pockets. If he does, then you’ve got a huge problem, as somebody has to commit themselves.
If a centre-back goes, you leave space in behind. But if a full-back goes, then the space is in the wide areas — as Silva and Aguero’s goals proved.
Spurs could play Davinson Sanchez and go with a back three.
One of the centre-backs is then free to step out to challenge De Bruyne, while the full-backs can cover the wide areas.
But City keep their width so well and it could drag one of the central defenders out of position.
City are going to be hell-bent on revenge — and Spurs must deal with De Bruyne effectively.
