It’s Europa League knockout action for Tottenham Hotspur as they take on AZ Alkmaar at the AZ Stadion in the first leg of their round of 16 clash this evening (Thursday, 5.45pm kick-off).
The competition is Spurs’ last chance of silverware this season, with it so far being a campaign of disappointment. The last few weeks have seen them fall out of both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup in the semi-final and fourth round stages, respectively.
With Spurs sitting in 13th place in the Premier League table, concentration may go on to the Europa League. Success in the tournament would see them qualify for the Champions League next season.
First, they must get through the first knockout match against Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. The second leg will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next week, with Spurs looking to take an advantage into that game.
Ahead of the match, there have been some hints as to who could be selected by Ange Postecoglou. The club have shared a pre-match graphic on social media, including James Maddison, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso.
All five started the last Premier League game against Manchester City, which Spurs lost 1-0. Their inclusion on the graphic hints that they will somehow be involved against AZ Alkmaar.
The graphic has been shared by Maddison onto his own Instagram story. Both Tel and Danso have also shared their own pre-match graphic to their stories ahead of the game, giving further indication of their involvement.