A perfect storm awaits Conte's Spurs in Manchester
Tottenham Hotspur will travel up to Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City in the early evening Premier League kick-off, down on both confidence and belief. Head coach Antonio Conte is currently cutting a very frustrated figure, and, after the hosts' rout of Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League in midweek, has every right to be fearful of a similar scoreline. Read our preview here:
A Rod for their backs
Pep Guardiola's side all but guaranteed their spot in the quarter finals of Europe's elite competition after just the first leg, and achieved it without the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Jack Grealish in their forward line. Expect both to feature prominently at the weekend, whilst Conte must be envious of the role Rodri performs in the midfield three. The Spanish enforcer continues to dovetail as a sponge for opposition attacks and a platform for launching the Citizens' own forays.
Ben-d, no flex
Only centre back Japhet Tanganga is definitely out of contention, and despite the talent on the roster in attacking areas, it's likely their shaky defence will get another thorough examination. In theory, Ben Davies brings both balance and versatility as the left sided player of the three protecting Hugo Lloris, but probably lacks the pace and sheer dynamism often required for that role, and he could be given the run-around down his flank.
Betting tip
Spurs have shown in the recent past that they can upset Man City, including the opening match of this season. However, with the new faces still adjusting to life in north London in the centre of midfield, it feels like an awful time to expect any kind of positive result against the league leaders. bet365 have odds of 2.88 for a handicap win of -2 for the hosts.
