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Tottenham will be hoping to claim their second win on the bounce when they return to Premier League action with a tricky trip to Newcastle United today. But boss Nuno Espirito Santo has been dealt a major blow in the lead-up to the clash after Son Heung-min and Bryan Gil was ruled out after testing positive for COVID-19.
Nuno could also be without a string of regulars who were involved in World Cup qualifying matches in South America earlier this week.
Spurs have endured mixed fortunes so far this season. In August they stormed to the top of the Premier League table courtesy of three 1-0 victories in succession.
But they struggled after the first international break, suffering heavy defeats to Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Arsenal, before stemming the tide with a 2-1 win over Aston Villa last time out.
Express Sport looks at how Nuno’s side could line-up at St James’ Park.
Goalkeeper – Lloris
Hugo Lloris has been in good form for Spurs this season and kept clean sheets in his opening three games.
He will captain the side from between the posts after leading France to UEFA Nations League final victory over Spain last weekend.
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Midfield – Hojbjerg, Ndombele, Skipp
Nuno will need to ensure his defence has good protection and the manager will be able to call upon Oliver Skipp and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to play in their usual defensive midfield roles.
The duo have started five times alongside each other this season.
Further forward, a rejuvenated Tanguy Ndombele is likely to be named in an attacking midfield role. The France international has started Spurs’ last three Premier League matches.
Forwards – Bergwjin, Kane, Moura
Spurs have looked awful in front of goal this season and have only managed to find the back of the net six times in seven Premier League matches.
Son has been involved in all but one of those goals, meaning his absence could be a significant one.
Instead, it will be up to Harry Kane to rediscover his scoring form and fire his side to glory. Kane is yet to find the back of the net this season.
The England captain will be supported by Lucas Moura and Steven Bergwijn, with Giovani Lo Celso also returning from South America in the latter part of the week and Bryan Gil ruled out with COVID-19.
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