RM: Erik Lamela
Aaron Lennon may be fit to start, while Nacer Chadli could also continue on the right wing but Sherwood may opt to give record-signing Lamela another shot. The Argentine was bright in a brief cameo against West Brom and has shown the odd glimpse that he could live up to his £30m price tag.
LM: Gylfi Sigurdsson
The Icelander has started all three of Sherwood’s games in charge from the left wing but has been largely anonymous. Sigurdsson will probably continue, although his inclusion seems strange, particularly with Spurs boasting so many midfield options.
CM: Christian Eriksen
The Dane was wasteful in possession against West Brom but showed his class with a stunning free kick, and Sherwood looks ready to build a team around the young pass-master.
CM: Paulinho
Mousa Dembele is struggling with a calf injury and Lewis Holtby and Eriksen did not look a natural pairing against the Baggies, meaning Paulinho is likely to go straight into the XI following his return from suspension. The Brazilian’s form has been erratic so far and he must step up against Stoke’s physical midfield if Spurs are to win the game.
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