Romero axed in six Postecoglou changes – Tottenham predicted XI v AZ Alkmaar
Ange Postecoglou could make three changes to his Tottenham side to face AZ Alkmaar on Thursday with Cristian Romero potentially set to miss out.
The Lilywhites are set to return to Europa League action with a view to recovering from a 1-0 defeat against the Dutch side in the first leg of the tie.
This comes after Spurs came back from 2-0 down to secure a point against Bournemouth thanks to a Son Heung-min penalty.
There was little positivity surrounding North London after this performance, which could see Postecoglou make multiple changes as his side revert to European football.
Romero axed for Tottenham v AZ Alkmaar
There is unlikely to be a change in between the sticks as Guglielmo Vicario looks set to start again after making six saves against the Cherries [FotMob].
With that being said, there is every chance that changes could be utilised ahead of the Italy international.
This could see Djed Spence and Romero drop out, after the Argentine’s poor performance last time out, where he won just 33 per cent of ground duels.
This could see Postecoglou welcome Destiny Udogie and Micky van de Ven into the starting 11 with Kevin Danso and Pedro Porro potentially set to keep their spot in the side.
In the midfield, the Spurs boss could once again utilise a double change as Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma could drop to the bench. The latter lost three duels against Bournemouth and could be replaced by Lucas Bergvall, as he was at half time in N17.
James Maddison could also come in to start behind Dominic Solanke who may start once again despite having just 35 touches against his former side.
Outwide, another two alterations could be made to welcome Mathys Tel and Son into the side. The latter scored off the bench last time out while also creating one chance and will hope to prove himself on the big stage for the Lilywhites.
Tottenham must win v AZ Alkmaar
It is safe to say that the Europa League clash against Alkmaar is sink or swim for Postecoglou.
A defeat could mean the end of the road in North London for the Australian who has endured a tough campaign on all fronts.
Now with Spurs done in the Premier League, League Cup and FA Cup, there is every ounce of importance being placed on European success.
If that was to end in the round of 16 against a struggling Eredivisie side, that fact would not reflect well on the head coach.
As a result, he needs to take a risk with his starting 11 and look to go all out for the win for the best of the club and himself on a personal level.