Mauricio Pochettino named a strong side for tonight’s Europa League trip to Qarabag but Tottenham Hotspur have been unable to make a first-half breakthrough against the Azerbaijani champions.
The Argentine may have rested regulars such as Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen or Jan Vertonghen, showing off his silky skills below in a rare first-half highlight, ahead of Sunday’s visit of Chelsea.
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But, despite the huge Premier League London derby coming just 40 hours after the final whistle in Baku, Pochettino left only Danny Rose, Kyle Walker and Mousa Dembele behind in England.
Ryan Mason, one of three players brought into the side which thrashed West Ham United 4-1, had a couple of long-range shots as Spurs failed to create clear-cut chances with their 63% possession.
Newly-capped England star Dele Alli probably had Tottenham’s best opportunity of the opening 45 minutes, but the teenage prodigy blazed over the crossbar from Kieran Trippier’s layoff.
Victory for Tottenham tonight would wrap up qualification to the last 32 with a game still to play. Combined with a draw between AS Monaco and Anderlecht, it would secure them top spot in Group J.
Half-time: Qarabag 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur
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