Spurs - Tottenham Hotspur vs. Southend United

By Simon Levinson (Lev)
December 19 2006

After their first away win of the season last Sunday, Tottenham face what is the biggest game of their season, according to some, (;-)), with a place in the League Cup semi-finals at stake.

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Southend United – League Cup Quarter Final – White Hart Lane – 24th December 2006

After their first away win of the season last Sunday, Tottenham face what is the biggest game of their season, according to some, (;-)), with a place in the League Cup semi-finals at stake. In order for this to be achieved, however, Spurs must manage themselves past Southend United, conquerors of Manchester United in the previous round of sixteen. Evidently, the Shrimpers will not roll over and die, and with star man Freddie Eastwood still terrorising defences in the Championship, despite the club’s lowly league position, they will certainly boast the faith necessary to cause another major upset.

For Spurs fans, Martin Jol’s team selection will be of paramount importance. Having been accused, earlier in the season, of belittling the opposition, in the shape of Reading, so much as to give them more of an incentive to win, he will be under pressure to put out a side perceived as possessing enough flair and star quality for a worthy Southend to play against.

This will leave the Blues’ manager Steve Tilson with question marks hanging over the starting eleven of Tottenham. Whereas he is expected to play the same team that beat Premiership leaders United, Spurs Martin Jol has a number of options available to him, although injuries may force his hand. Aaron Lennon, Hossam Ghaly and long-term absentee Jermaine Jenas are missing from the Spurs squad, while Didier Zokora is still suspended. This could result in the reintroduction of Edgar Davids or Danny Murphy to the midfield, although Jamie O’Hara could get a taste of first team action if he is preferred to both of the ever-aging duo.

At the back, Jol will have to decide whether to continue to play the much-improved Young-Pyo Lee at left back, or give another chance to the still-promising Benoit Assou-Ekotto, despite being dropped for the last few league matches. Ledley King may be rested, with Calum Davenport possibly being accompanied by the returning Michael Dawson at centre back. Similarly, Dimitar Berbatov may make way for Hossam Ahmed Mido, as the Egyptian has not featured much of late, while Jermain Defoe will hope to add to his recent glut of goals, as Robbie Keane is still a few weeks away from his return.

Whatever side Spurs do put out, to not gain the necessary result would be a disaster; a glorious opportunity for a semi-final cannot be wasted. Southend fans may certainly not mind Martin Jol resting a few of his stars, but this should not affect the result anyway. The importance of a good squad should become evident after Wednesday night, especially with the amount of injuries Tottenham have in their midfield. Whoever plays, regardless of individual opinions about them, should be good enough for our glorious club to call upon to do a job, and do it well. A win should be the minimum requirement for Tottenham’s young, ever-improving side.

COYS