Football news

Tottenham Hotspur v. Blackburn Rovers

Saturday, 13 March 2010 - administrator

The Hotspurs will attempt to maintain their fourth place position in the Barclay’s Premier League in a home fixture against the Blackburn Rovers. If the Spurs can stay in fourth they will qualify for the prestigious UEFA Champions League. Three points against the Rovers at home could give the Spurs some difference in points from the likes of Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester City. All of which are vying for the fourth and final Champions League spot. City has a game in hand.

Redknapp feels confident that his side can handle the Rovers in the familiar confines of White Hart Lane. Since December, Tottenham have won six and drawn three of their past nine home games. Sam Allardyce’s side, on the other hand, have had their share of troubles away from home. The Rovers have lost 10 out of 14 games away from Ewood Park.

The services of Jermaine Defoe hinge on a late fitness test. Defoe did not play against Fulham last week due to a hamstring strain. Redknapp will be without the services of Tom Huddlestone (ankle), David Bentley (hip), Jermaine Jenas (groin), Jonathan Woodgate (groin) and Aaron Lennon (groin). Jonathan Woodgate will be out for the remainder of the season after having undergone an operation in Australia on his groin. Younes Kaboul and Kyle Walker can play after being cup-tied last weekend.

The Rover’s have few injuries to deal with. Lars Jacobsen (hernia), Ryan Nelsen (knee) and Vince Grella (calf) will not be making the trip to White Hart Lane. David Dunn will be back in the lineup.

Sam Allardyce has been receiving a lot of media attention due to a feud with Liverpool boss, Rafa Benitez. Even though Rafa criticized Allardyce style before their match last week, Redknapp upholds that he will not follow suit. Redknapp had nothing but good things to say about the Blackburn manager during an interview. “Whatever Sam does, he has been one of the most successful managers, doing what he's done with what he's had.”

Tottenham will not easily be able to secure three points against a physical Blackburn side. On top of that, the Spurs are missing five first team players and could be susceptible at the back when they push forward. However, since Blackburn have hardly proved themselves as a visiting threat, and the Spurs are playing well at the Lane of late, the Spurs win close.