Spurs versus West Ham United: (match preview)

After three home games, Spurs are back on the road again on Saturday, when Pochettino’s side travel to east London for an important London Derby against rivals West Ham United. After finding out we’ll be facing the Hammers again, in the fourth round of the Carabao cup, Pochettino will be hoping his side set the tone with a league victory at the weekend. This fixture last season, saw Spurs’ feint title hopes dashed when the Slavan Bilic’s side beat Spurs 1-0, in what was one of the most disappointing days of an other wise brilliant campaign. The rivalry between these two clubs has grown somewhat in recent seasons, seeing some of the most dramatic Spurs’ games of recent times. Paul Stalteri’s late winner in a 4-3 victory at the old Boleyn ground, and a late stunner from Bale back in 2013, just two that come to mind. Results and performances have been mostly impressive from our lads of recent, superb displays against Dortmund followed by uninspiring stalemates with Swansea though, still suggesting that Pochettino’s new look side hasn’t yet clicked. Of course all fans know that victory over the hammers is imperative, but with a champions league tie away to Apoel Nicosia in midweek, it may prove a tad tricky for Pochettino to play the same team for both encounters. Despite, West Ham’s poor start to the season they’ve shown some consistency from recent games, with a draw and two victories from their last three games.

Bilic is a top manager who has his side very well structured, it will certainly be a tough task to break them down tomorrow. However, its their potent and dynamic front three consisting of Antonio, Hernandez and Carroll which will provide their main goal threat. I’m anticipating a tough and closely knit game tomorrow afternoon, but as always I’m feeling confident, that Pochettino’s side can record their first win at the London stadium. COYS

Absentees: Victor Wanyama, Erik Lamela, Danny Rose.

My predicted lineup: (3-4-2-1) Lloris(c), Alderweireld, Sanchez, Vertonghen, Aurier, Dier, Dembele, Davies, Eriksen, Alli, Kane.

My score prediction: 3-1 to Spurs, courtesy of a brace from Harry Kane and and a goal from Sanchez.

One to watch: West Ham’s powerful winger Michael Antonio, who is a real threat inside the penalty area.