Mauricio Pochettino has made a bold choice with his team selection for Tottenham’s meeting with Aston Villa, a decision that could have an effect on the future of Christian Eriksen.
The Dane has been left out of the starting line-up for the Spurs’ Premier League curtain raiser, which will fuel additional speculation about a transfer away from the club.
Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are both reportedly prioritising moves for other targets, but there is still a chance Eriksen will seal a move away from Tottenham before the European transfer window closes at the end of the month.
And with no sign of an injury, it is perhaps a surprise that Eriksen has been left on the bench for the first match of the season. Erik Lamela will play behind Lucas Moura and Harry Kane, while Pochettino has gone with a midfield three of Harry Winks, Moussa Sissoko and record signing Tanguy Ndombele.
Toby Alderweireld also continues to be linked with a departure, but the Belgian starts next to Davinson Sanchez at centre-back in the absence of Jan Vertonghen.
Danny Rose looks set to stay. He has been picked at left-back, with Kyle Walker-Peters on the right.
The question is: will Eriksen be reintegrated if he fails to secure a transfer by the end of the month? Or has Pochettino just sent the 27-year-old a message with his team selection, suggesting he will be sold?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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