There’s no overstating how important Sunday’s relegation six-pointer against Nottingham Forest is—it could prove to be our biggest domestic game in years.
However, Igor Tudor’s Tottenham head into the clash with renewed confidence. Momentum is beginning to build in north London after finally securing a win for the first time since January, even though it came in a tie that saw them exit the Champions League against Atlético Madrid.
Forest, meanwhile, are still competing in Europe, having edged past Midtjylland in extra time and on penalties to reach the Europa League quarter-finals. That demanding trip, completed less than 72 hours before Sunday’s kickoff, could take its toll—but Spurs can’t afford to rely on that.
Instead, Tudor must concentrate on what’s within his control. The 47-year-old has already shown tactical flexibility after a difficult start, reverting to a back three following a brief spell with a 4-4-2 that proved effective at Anfield. For Sunday’s home fixture, a more fluid and attacking style—like the one seen midweek—will likely be the aim.
With injuries easing, Tudor faces some key selection calls. Two players, in particular, should return to the starting XI against Forest.
Destiny Udogie
A shortage of left-footed options has hurt Tottenham’s balance, especially in possession. With Destiny Udogie sidelined, Djed Spence has often filled in on the left despite being right-footed. While Spence thrived in a freer role under Ange Postecoglou, he was more restricted under Thomas Frank, leaving the left side ineffective.
Spence may benefit from Tudor’s approach, but a fit Udogie should still reclaim his spot. After returning from a hamstring injury with a brief substitute appearance midweek, he looks close to full fitness. His natural width and attacking support are crucial to improving Spurs’ structure on the ball, even if he can only manage an hour.
Kevin Danso
Kevin Danso was surprisingly left out of the second leg despite an impressive display at Liverpool. Radu Drăgușin started instead but again failed to convince and shouldn’t keep his place.
Danso has quickly become a fan favourite thanks to his reliability. He may not stand out in any one area, but he’s solid across the board—strong defensively, composed under pressure, and capable of progressing the ball, unlike Drăgușin.
If Tudor sticks with a back three, the defensive line against Forest should feature Danso alongside Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
