Predicted Tottenham XI vs. AZ Alkmaar – Micky van de Ven Returns for Crucial Europa League Clash

The pressure on Ange Postecoglou is intensifying, and failure to progress against AZ Alkmaar will only heighten concerns about his ability to lead Tottenham forward.

 

With so much at stake, he needs his players to deliver.

 

Predicted Tottenham XI vs. AZ Alkmaar (Europa League)

 

Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario

 

Despite a brief moment of tension with the Spurs supporters—an issue he has since apologised for—Vicario was Tottenham’s standout performer in the first leg at the AFAS Stadium.

 

His inclusion in the starting lineup is unquestionable.

 

Right-back – Pedro Porro

This is not the time for experiments. In a must-win scenario, Postecoglou will rely on his best players, and Porro has firmly established himself as the club’s first-choice right-back. His place in the lineup remains secure.

 

Centre-back – Cristian Romero

 

Romero’s 60-minute appearance against Bournemouth was crucial for regaining match sharpness, even if his performance left some Spurs fans unconvinced.

 

If he is fit, Postecoglou will turn to him in this crucial fixture.

 

Centre-back – Micky van de Ven

 

The club’s careful management of Van de Ven’s injury suggests this fixture was always the target for his full return.

 

After easing back into action with a 30-minute cameo at the weekend, Spurs could finally reunite their preferred centre-back pairing for the first time since December’s chaotic clash against Chelsea.

 

Left-back – Djed Spence

 

There is no debate here. Spence has been a revelation in the left-back role, and his performances this season have earned him a starting spot in such a crucial encounter.

 

Pivot midfielder – Lucas Bergvall

 

Bergvall was given a well-earned rest against Bournemouth, a clear indication that Postecoglou wants him fresh and ready for this tie. Expect him to start and play a key role in midfield.

 

Central midfielder – Pape Matar Sarr

 

With Rodrigo Bentancur suspended, Sarr is the natural replacement. His relentless energy in midfield will be vital, and as he demonstrated on Sunday, he is capable of contributing with goals as well.

 

Central midfielder – James Maddison

 

With Dejan Kulusevski expected to miss four matches, Maddison is Tottenham’s only fit creative midfielder.

 

However, he has a tendency to go missing in crucial moments—something that was evident in the first leg.

 

Pundit Roy Keane has criticised him, and this match presents another opportunity for the Englishman to prove himself on the big stage.

 

Left midfielder – Heung-min Son

 

Rested against Bournemouth, Son made an instant impact upon coming on, winning and converting a late penalty to take his league tally to seven.

 

That goal also moved him up to 16th on the all-time Premier League top scorers list with 127 goals. If Spurs are to overturn their deficit, they need their captain to lead by example.

 

Striker – Dominic Solanke

 

Solanke’s return against Bournemouth was a welcome boost for Tottenham. His physicality and link-up play have been sorely missed, and Spurs cannot afford a slow reintegration.

 

He needs to hit the ground running, and Thursday presents the perfect opportunity.

 

Right midfielder – Brennan Johnson

 

With Kulusevski sidelined, Johnson remains the only natural right-winger available. He has shown promise in front of goal and should be given the chance to start.

 

With so much on the line, this XI represents Tottenham’s best chance of overturning their deficit and advancing in the Europa League.