Tottenham v Leicester – White Hart Lane at 16:00 live on BBC One
Tottenham will be looking for revenge this Sunday when they face Leicester in the 3rd round of the FA Cup at White Hart Lane. Spurs were knocked out of last seasons competition by the Foxes on home soil, losing 2-1 in the 4th round thanks to late goals from Ulloa and Schlupp.
The two sides are flying high in the Premier League with the hosts in 4th and the visitors in 2nd, still in the hunt for the title, but more realistically, looking for a place in the Champions League next season. Whilst both sides main focus will be on the league, a day out at Wembley and the chance for a piece of silverware will be high on the agenda of both Pochettino and Ranieri.
Tottenham’s defeat in the cup last year has to go down as an upset as Leicester were heading for relegation, until a miraculous recovery towards the end of the season. This time round, a home defeat wouldn’t be a huge shock despite the hosts going into the match as 1.66 favourites.
Leicester’s form has dipped of late though and are without a win in 3, which included a loss to Liverpool and draws with Man City and Bournemouth. They have reached the ’40 point’ mark which most believe to be the figure to ensure another season in the top flight but with still half a season to come, Leicester still have a long way to go and will not want to start slipping down the table.
Having already exceeded expectations in the league, they are in a perfect position to go for it in the FA Cup and I expect a strong starting XI from Ranieri and I think have been underestimated at 5.50.
Tottenham, ever in search of a top 4 finish have arguably their best chance this season to make a return to the UCL and have been playing some excellent football. They had an excellent festive period, defeating Southampton, Norwich and Watford but their momentum slowed at Goodison Park last Sunday as they were held to a draw by Everton.
Despite their main focus being finishing in the top 4, it has been 9 years since Spurs have won a trophy and 25 years since their last FA Cup win so a piece of silverware is overdue. They are still in the Europa League, facing Fiorentina in the next round and could have a very busy couple of months if they stay in all competitions.
There is no doubt that Tottenham have the players to really push for trophies and a top 4 finish but being in contention for 3 competitions come February is a tough ask for any side, let alone a young squad.
The hosts are rightfully favourites but are too short at 1.66 give us some value on Leicester on the Asian Handicap betting market. The Foxes are give +1 at 1.83 which is a good price and my recommendation for Sunday.
Asian Handicap Betting Recommendation: Leicester +1 at 1.83
Prices correct at time of writing.
By @SC457.
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