Leeds vs. Tottenham: Predicted starting 11 as Spurs target fourth successive win

Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham have finally been offered respite from the Saturday evening slot, and will instead face Leeds United away from home at lunchtime.

The Lilywhites claimed victory at Elland Road in the same kick-off slot under Thomas Frank last season, with goals from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus enough to enjoy a 2-1 victory.

De Zerbi takes his team up to West Yorkshire off the back of a three-game winning run, and there’s an overwhelming sense in N17 that things are starting to come together. For the first time in ever so long, this looks like a properly functioning football team, and the vibes are high.

Still, trips to Elland Road are seldom plain sailing, and Daniel Farke’s Leeds have proven to be stubborn opposition ever since their German manager switched to a back three towards the end of 2025.

There is brewing discontent regarding the club’s recent form (no wins in five), so while this appears like a classic case of “Dr. Tottenham will see you now,” De Zerbi's team also have the chance to capitalise on Leeds' current consternation.

Here's how Tottenham could line up at Elland Road this weekend.

Archie Gray scored a rare Tottenham goal to open the scoring last weekend, but I suspect Pedro Porro will return to the starting lineup for the first time in six weeks on Saturday. The Spaniard adds another creative layer to De Zerbi’s team and was impressive off the bench against Crystal Palace’s 10 men.

I’ve heard nasty rumours about Micky van de Ven’s status for the game after he supposedly missed training in the week, but nothing’s been substantiated yet. He did look uncomfortable for a brief period after making a recovery last Saturday, so maybe that has something to do with it.

Marcos Senesi will be ready to fill the potential void. For now, I’ll assume he’ll be fine to partner compatriot Jan Paul van Hecke.

Destiny Udogie is back in contention, but I wouldn’t be surprised if De Zerbi stuck with Andy Robertson. The Scot has settled in over the past couple of weeks, developing a good relationship with young winger Mathys Tel.

Let’s not mess around here, Roberto. It’s Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes and one other.

As long as the two blockbuster summer arrivals are fit, they must play. Look at good at football we are when they’re working in harmony.

There is a question surrounding the No. 10 role, though. Is James Maddison ready? He hasn’t been spotted in training, although he is starting to follow in Ledley King’s footsteps. I suspect he’ll be in the squad, but a start may be beyond him. If that’s the case, I’m predicting De Zerbi to go with Conor Gallagher against a physical Leeds midfield.

A similar blueprint to the early-season encounter at Nottingham Forest. I’m not exactly sure how I’d feel about that, even if the rationale is sound.

There’s unlikely to be any changes down the flanks, with Kudus and Tel scoring on their previous visit to Elland Road.

Dominic Solanke is working hard, but he’s struggling to ever find himself in the right place at the right time. January can’t come soon enough, and instead of watching him flounder against a robust backline, I’d rather see Omar Marmoush offer some level of technical security.

Marmoush is yet to find his feet despite scoring against Coventry City, with De Zerbi constantly tinkering with the Egyptian’s role. Perhaps we should just give him a run as the leading man.