Prediction: Tottenham win
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The new year is almost upon us and while there has been some speculation over the next few weeks and months, both in wider society and football itself, all fans can do is sit back and enjoy the games that they do get a chance to watch. Today we ll be taking a look at what should be an intriguing clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, although it should be noted that there has been rumours circulating about this showdown potentially being postponed due to COVID-19.
Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur have gone from title contenders to battling for a place in the top four and it s all happened in the space of just a few weeks. Many will attribute that decline to the style of football that has been implemented by Jose Mourinho, but with that point must come the acknowledgement that the Portuguese boss has also reinjected a winning mentality into the club. Whether or not that lasts, however, is going to be the biggest question of all heading into 2021.
Team News
Moura and Vinicius are both fitness doubts for the hosts, and while Lamela, Sissoko and Aurier are all hoping to start, the following players have been ruled out through injury Lo Celso, Tanga and Bale.
Fulham
Fulham Football Club were widely considered to be dead and buried at the start of the campaign, with some even writing them off before they d kicked a ball in their Premier League return. Now, under the tutelage of Scott Parker and Tony Khan, there is an embedded belief that they will be able to avoid an instant return back down to the Championship. The structure within the club feels a lot smoother and they ll hope to build on that between now and May.
Team News
The main two injury doubts are Kongolo and Tete with Lemina being available for selection after missing out agains parent club Southampton. The big story, though, is that reports are indicating there has been a COVID-19 outbreak within the Cottagers squad which has put this fixture in jeopardy.
Factors to Consider
Tottenham are in seventh place with 26 points whereas Fulham are in 18th place with 11 points.
Tottenham have won two, drawn two and lost two of their last six games.
Fulham have won one, drawn four and lost one of their last six games.
Tottenham have scored eight goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
Fulham have scored four goals and conceded five in their last six games.
Conclusion
This is going to be the definition of tactical warfare with Tottenham going down their usual route of trying to take the lead and protect it. On the flip side, they ll be taking on a Fulham side that have actually been more defensively resolute than Jose s men in the last few weeks. We think Spurs will just about be able to edge out a 1-0 win, but it isn t going to be the kind of victory that reassures fans in the midst of great uncertainty surrounding the club s new direction.
Prediction: Tottenham win
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