Preview: Tottenham Hotspur vs. Stoke City

By Danielle Joynson | 07 Nov 2014 17:37, Last updated: 04 Jun 2025 23:10

Morale was boosted slightly at Tottenham Hotspur last weekend following a late victory over Aston Villa, but manager Mauricio Pochettino will be under pressure again when he hosts Stoke City at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

The Argentine has come under pressure in recent weeks having lost four of their opening 10 games, with some suggesting that the North London side's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League are already over.

Spurs sit eighth in the Premier League table, just three points behind local rivals Arsenal, who currently occupy fourth spot, but they need to improve on their home form having lost three out of their last four league games at White Hart Lane.

After suffering back-to-back defeats against Manchester City and Newcastle United, last Sunday's late comeback against Villa could prove to be a turning point in their season.

For Stoke, Mark Hughes's side were dealt a blow last weekend when they relinquished a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with West Ham United at the Britannia Stadium.

It's been a tough period for the Potters as they have secured just a single victory in a month, but they have shown grit against top opposition this season having snatched a 1-0 win over champions Manchester City back in August.

Concerns could be raised about Stoke's possibility of falling into danger as they are just three points away from the drop zone, however, should they beat Spurs on Sunday, they could potentially move into the top eight.

The big questions over team selection for Tottenham is the inclusion of Harry Kane, who has scored 10 goals in all competitions so far this season, and whether he will be named on the bench or in the staring XI in place of Emmanuel Adebayor or Roberto Soldado.

Hugo Lloris is expected to return to goal following his absence from Europa League action on Thursday, while the visitors are likely to welcome back Peter Crouch following suspension.