West Brom Spurs Preview – cup finalist face the Pulis factor

After progressing to the League Cup Final in midweek, Spurs make the trip to West Brom this Saturday. One of the most disappointing games of the season was our 1-0 home loss to the same opposition. This time should be a tougher task as we face the Baggies away, with added Tony Pulis.

West Brom

It has been a disappointing season for West Brom, who sit 14th in the Premier League on 22 points, 8 places and 15 points below Spurs. The midlanders are on their fourth manager in 18 months but with Pulis have picked a candidate with a strong track record.

Until Pulis came in the Baggies would normally set up in a 4-2-3-1 but so far the new manager has gone with a 4-4-2 and a 4-5-1 in the Premier League.

Saido Berahino has been the main story up front. The supposed Tottenham target is the Baggies’ top scorer in the league with 9 goals, including the winner in the recent victory over Hull. However, Victor Anichebe was the hero last weekend with two goals to defeat Birmingham in the FA Cup.

Pulis teams are generally hard working, tough tackling, good in the air and hard to break down. One goal conceded in his first four games in charge are testament to his impact so far.

The worry is Spurs normally match up badly against a well organised team, defending and hitting us with pace on the break.

Odds

The odds are finely balanced, with both teams level at 2.82 and the draw further out at 3.35

Team News

Pochettino has a fully fit squad to choose from with just Nabil Bentaleb missing on African Cup of Nations duty. Nacer Chadli has returned to the squad after a family bereavement.

West Brom have Mulumbu and Olsson out, while reserve keep Myhill faces a late fitness test.

Spurs Team

Several Tottenham players may be tired after their exertions on Wednesday, while their opponents have had a week to prepare.

I like Dier in defence with Vertonghen. Although Fazio has formed a decent partnership with the Belgian, Dier’s extra mobility will be an asset against a team likely to play on the break through the pace of Berahino and Sessegnon.

I’m not Rose’s biggest fan but he has acquitted himself well recently and has earned the right to start.

Stambouli’s energy and Mason’s forward thinking should be a big improvement on last weekend’s midfield.

The front four pick themselves.