Igor Tudor Faces Selection Dilemma for Tottenham vs Arsenal Amid Injuries

Igor Tudor, the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur, faces significant challenges as he prepares for his first match against Arsenal. The club is grappling with a dire injury crisis, with 12 players, including captain Cristian Romero, unavailable for selection. Their upcoming match is scheduled for Sunday, February 22, at 4:30 PM, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Injury Dilemma for Tudor

With such a high number of absentees, Tudor must devise a suitable formation for this crucial North London derby. Spurs have struggled in the league lately, sitting in 16th place, just five points above the relegation zone. Tudor’s immediate task is to improve upon the team’s alarming run of two wins in 17 games.

Strategic Challenges

Tudor is known for his preference for a three-at-the-back defensive setup, a strategy that served him well during his previous managerial stints in Serie A and Ligue 1. However, with only Micky van de Ven and Radu Dragusin available as recognized center-backs, he may have to adapt his approach.

• Injured Players: 12 players unavailable, including Cristian Romero.
• League Position: Tottenham is 16th in the Premier League.
• Recent Form: Just 2 wins in 17 games.

Previous Tactics and Future Plans

Tudor’s predecessors have largely employed a back four, but he has successfully transitioned teams to a three-man defense, resulting in improved performances. At Juventus and Lazio, Tudor’s tactical changes led to quick positive results. He aims to replicate this success at Tottenham.

While Arsenal has a strong record against teams using three-at-the-back formations, Tudor has optimism based on Arsenal’s recent drop in form, having dropped points against a struggling Wolverhampton side using a similar defensive strategy. This presents an opportunity for Tottenham to regain some form.

Player Selection Decisions

As Tudor contemplates his lineup, he must make key decisions on his available players. Emergency options like Joao Palhinha may play vital roles in the defensive setup, while January signing Souza could be positioned at left wing-back due to the injury to Destiny Udogie. Other midfield considerations must also account for the likes of Conor Gallagher, Yves Bissouma, and Pape Sarr.

Upcoming Matches

Following the match against Arsenal, Tottenham has a challenging schedule ahead:

If Tudor hopes to secure his position long-term, a positive result against Arsenal will be crucial. He aims to instill an attacking style of play that has been absent under the previous manager. Tudor emphasizes the need for organization while fostering an offensive approach in a tough moment for the club.