Spurs Likely To Struggle In Russia Despite Inclusions Of Gallas And Defoe
Tottenham have handled the demands of the Europa League and Premiership well so far this season, Harry Redknapp's decision to play the fringe players and the kids has kept his squad fit as well as handing valuable first team experience to the younger players and that selection policy will continue on Thursday in Russia with several first teamers not making the long trip to Rubin Kazan.
Possibly the most significant non traveller is Spurs manager Harry Redknapp who has undergone minor heart surgery this week. Senior players who have been left behind include Scott Parker, Sandro, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric whilst Rafael Van Der Vaart wasn't even registered to play in this competition at the start of the season. Jermain Defoe and Sebastien Bassong are amongst the senior players who are in Russia whilst William Gallas and Steven Pienaar are both set to make their first starts of the season having missed the first couple of months with injuries. Gomes could start in goal having impressed in his last Europa League outing and Roman Pavlyuchenko could be looking to impress whilst playing in his home country, the Russian striker is likely to be on the move in January if the club can agree a fee.
A Spurs team with a fair amount of experience shouldn't be underestimated but Rubin Kazan looked a decent team at White Hart Lane (only lost 1-0) and could easily have won that game. Things will be much tougher for Spurs in Russia and Rubin Kazan should be able to put home advantage to good use, they are also a decent price to win the match and the home side look a pretty strong bet in this match, Spurs should still have no problems qualifying even if they lose this match.