Ange Postecoglou makes Rodrigo Bentancur mistake in Tottenham XI v West Ham

Ange Postecoglou could regret his decision to bench Rodrigo Bentancur for the Premier League clash with West Ham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday (19 October).

Postecoglou's side are in desperate need of a win against the Hammers.

After winning six straight matches, they went into the October international break off the back of a 3-2 defeat to Brighton at the Amex Stadium (6 October) in the Premier League.

Having led 2-0 at half time, it was a disastrous result on the South Coast. Therefore, Postecoglou and his players need to show a response against West Ham.

Following such a miserable defeat, losing to their fierce London rivals at home could spell disaster for Tottenham.

Postecoglou's side need to get off to a quick start in North London. As a result, it might perhaps come as a surprise to see Bentancur benched, a decision confirmed via the club's official X account (19 October).

Ange Postecoglou drops Rodrigo Bentancur from Tottenham XI v West Ham

Bentancur has been in positive form as of late.

He wasn't at his best in the defeat at Brighton. However, as per Sofascore, he still completed 85 per cent of his passes and won three of his five ground duels.

In addition, the midfielder made two tackles, two interceptions and two clearances.

Yves Bissouma sent Postecoglou a message while on international duty, and the Australian has clearly responded.

However, considering Bentancur has spent the past two weeks resting at Hotspur Way, it is quite surprising to see him lose his place in the team.

Postecoglou will need to hope Bissouma is at his best on Saturday, and his exploits with Mali over the past two weeks don't catch up to him.

In other Tottenham news, a Pep Guardiola claim has emerged amid new manager talk in North London.

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