Tottenham's midfield dilemma comes clear as Mateus Fernandes' stats emerge ahead of Coventry

Tottenham Hotspur's Mateus Fernandes is at the centre of a midfield selection dilemma ahead of a clash against Coventry City on Monday.

Spurs will be on the hunt for their first win of the Premier League season when they host the Sky Blues at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Lilywhites picked up a last-gasp draw against Manchester United last time out, giving Roberto De Zerbi's side a positive to hold on to.

However, Frank Lampard's side have won each of their last two games in the Premier League, and will be heading to N17 full of confidence.

One of Spurs' main issues that needs addressing against Coventry is their attack, with problems stemming from the lack of chance creation from midfield.

Fernandes didn't start against Man United, but could he be the answer to Tottenham's problems this time round?

Is Mateus Fernandes the answer to midfield dilemma vs Coventry?

De Zerbi started a midfield three of Sandro Tonali, Lucas Bergvall and Conor Gallagher against Manchester United.

James Maddison and Fernandes were among those who came off the bench against the Red Devils, while Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for violent conduct after his introduction.

But what does De Zerbi do against Coventry?

Well, against a newly promoted side, the Italian head coach should be going all out, which is where Fernandes can replace Bergvall.

First of all, Fernandes' FotMob rating stands at 6.75, while Bergvall's is 6.09 in the Premier League so far.

Spurs' summer signing creates 1.79 more chances per 90 than his Swedish teammate, and also has 0.90 extra shots on average.

Fernandes wins possession in the final third 1.08 per match, and makes 3.59 accurate passes per 90, with both statistics better than Bergvall's readings.

The former West Ham star has 94 per cent passing accuracy compared to Bergvall's 86.5 per cent.

That said, Fernandes should start alongside Tonali in the middle of the park, but who should play in the number 10 role?

Final piece to Tottenham's midfield puzzle vs Coventry

Gallagher started in the number 10 hole against Man United, but left little to be desired.

Spurs have several other attackers who can play the role, including Fernandes

However, as the Portuguese youngster should play in defensive midfield for extra attacking reasons, James Maddison should be given the nod in a more advanced role.

The former England international endured an injury-hit campaign last term, but racked up 22 goals and assists combined in the 2024-25 season.

He's yet to show his best under De Zerbi, but the former Coventry City man is surely primed to hurt his old side, if given the chance.