Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea: 5 players who could decide the outcome | Premier League 2019-20

#5 Toby Alderweireld

Toby Alderweireld's long passes could be dangerous for Chelsea's defence

If they want to win this fixture, Tottenham’s defence will have to be at the top of its game - something that hasn’t really been the case during the majority of 2019-20. Since the arrival of Mourinho, however, the Spurs defence has looked a little stronger, and Belgium’s Toby Alderweireld in particular has seen an improvement in form.

Alderweireld seems to be the biggest benefactor of Mourinho’s decision to switch to a more direct way of playing. His long balls from the centre of defence are amongst the best in the Premier League, and Spurs fans witnessed how dangerous they can be when the Belgian set up two goals for Dele Alli in the recent win over Bournemouth.

It’s also likely that Alderweireld will be tasked with attempting to prevent the dangerous Tammy Abraham from holding the ball up during Chelsea’s attacks. And that's not an easy job to do given the England striker has scored 11 Premier League goals.

But if he can keep Abraham quiet and also contribute to Spurs’ attacks, the Belgian could be key to them winning the game.