OPINION
Tottenham were on the brink of suffering their third defeat on the bounce to Arsenal before goalkeeper Hugo Lloris spared their blushes with a superb penalty save on Saturday.
Three losses in a row would not have done Mauricio Pochettino the world of good heading into the second leg of their last-16 tie against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Pochettino would have learned a lot about his players from the 1-1 draw with the Gunners, and this must see him make two changes to his team ahead of the clash.
In goal, Hugo Lloris must start as normal, especially after his match saving heroics.
The first change must come in the defence, and it is Davinson Sanchez – who is on £65,000-a-week [Spotrac] – must face the axe after such a woeful effort, especially as it was him who conceded the vital penalty at the end. Pochettino cannot afford to take any risks in this match, which is why Juan Foyth must replace him.
Jan Vertonghen was excellent on Saturday and he will no doubt be remembered for his brilliant block from the penalty rebound, with Toby Alderweireld also putting in a decent shift.
Kieran Trippier was not at his greatest on Saturday, but his runs down the right hand side are needed on Tuesday, something which also applies to his teammate Danny Rose down the left hand side.
Moussa Sissoko was wonderful as always, but it was his midfield partner, Victor Wanyama, who was particularly rusty. The 27-year-old started in the place of the injured Harry Winks, and it was clear from the game that he still has a lot of work to do.
This means that the second change must come in the shape of Oliver Skipp, who has shown signs of promise already this season.
Christian Eriksen was rather average but his inclusion in the starting XI must be a no-brainer on Tuesday, as is Heung min-Son’s place. Harry Kane came with the all important goal, so Pochettino must not think twice about playing him.
If Pochettino makes the right calls in terms of his starting XI, then there is no doubt that his team would crush Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.
