Tottenham Hotspur could be set to hand a full competitive debut to 18-year-old Archie Gray as they visit Coventry City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night. The England Under-21 international, who made the high-profile switch from Leeds United to North London this summer for £40 million, may finally get his chance to start after two Premier League cameos.
Gray is not the only youngster likely to grace the pitch in Coventry. Lucas Bergvall, another promising talent, is expected to feature, although it remains unclear whether he will start. Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham’s head coach, has hinted that Wednesday’s clash will give fringe players opportunities, so fans could see a mix of youth and experience in the starting XI.
With the need for squad rotation and pressure mounting after Spurs’ recent struggles in the Premier League, Postecoglou will likely rest key players while still fielding a competitive lineup. Ben Davies and Radu Dragusin could be included to provide defensive stability against a lower-tier opponent.
Spurs’ Attacking Struggles and the Need for Fresh Faces
Tottenham’s attacking line has yet to click this season, which opens the door for Wilson Odobert and Timo Werner to showcase their abilities against Coventry. Both forwards will look to capitalize on the opportunity to impress, especially with the frontline struggling to find the net in the Premier League.
Dominic Solanke, who is still searching for his first goal since his big-money move from Bournemouth, is expected to retain his spot up front, as Richarlison remains unavailable. Solanke’s lack of goals has been a talking point, and Wednesday’s match could provide him the platform to finally break his duck.
Midfield Reinforcements and Tactical Flexibility
With Yves Bissouma sidelined, Pape Matar Sarr is likely to step into the starting lineup after coming off the bench during Tottenham’s defeat to Arsenal. The young midfielder has shown promise and will be eager to make his mark.
Another intriguing option is Dejan Kulusevski, who could slot into the midfield in a more advanced role. His versatility allows Postecoglou to tinker with the setup, ensuring a balance between creativity and control.
Defensive Changes Likely
While Postecoglou is expected to make changes across the board, the backline may also see some rotation. Pedro Porro is the most likely to continue at right-back, while Cristian Romero could partner Radu Dragusin in the center of defense. Ben Davies could provide leadership at left-back, offering balance between youth and experience.
Predicted Tottenham Starting Lineup (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Fraser Forster
Right-back: Pedro Porro
Center-backs: Cristian Romero, Radu Dragusin
Left-back: Ben Davies
Midfield: Pape Sarr, Dejan Kulusevski, Archie Gray
Forwards: Wilson Odobert, Timo Werner, Dominic Solanke
Postecoglou Balancing Pressure and Rotation
Although Tottenham suffered a bitter defeat to Arsenal in the North London Derby, Postecoglou is not expected to make wholesale changes. The need to secure a win against Coventry is paramount, and the pressure on his shoulders has only increased following the poor start to the season. As a result, Ange will likely field a lineup that mixes youth with experience, ensuring a competitive edge while providing opportunities to emerging talents like Gray and Bergvall.
Despite facing a Championship side, Coventry should not be underestimated. Postecoglou knows that a cup run could be vital for boosting morale and easing the growing pressure. Spurs fans will be hoping for a strong performance and a comfortable victory as the club looks to bounce back from recent disappointments.