Spurs Starting XI v Bournemouth: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

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·7 January 2026

Spurs Starting XI v Bournemouth: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

Spurs assess options as Kudus setback reshapes plans

Tottenham Hotspur head to the south coast facing a familiar January challenge, piecing together solutions rather than perfect plans. The latest complication surrounds Mohammed Kudus, who is likely to miss the Bournemouth fixture after suffering a thigh injury in the draw with Sunderland.

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Kudus went down off the ball, clutching his left thigh, before receiving treatment and being replaced by Randal Kolo Muani in the 19th minute. The incident immediately raised concerns, and those fears were largely confirmed when Thomas Frank addressed the issue ahead of the trip to the Vitality Stadium.

“He’s going for a scan here, 1 o’clock, to clarify the issue. So unfortunately, I don’t have a big update on it,” Frank said.

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He added: “Yeah, most likely ruled out for Bournemouth.”

Right side dilemma opens door for deputies

Kudus’ absence leaves Spurs without a natural right winger, a problem that has become increasingly common this season. In his place, Kolo Muani looks set to continue after an impressive cameo against Sunderland, offering direct running and physical presence rather than touchline discipline.

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On the opposite flank, Mathys Tel strengthened his case with a lively display and could make just his fifth Premier League start of the campaign. His willingness to attack defenders one on one gives Spurs an outlet that has sometimes been missing, even if end product remains inconsistent.

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These selections underline a broader theme, adaptability over ideal balance. Spurs are again relying on players stepping slightly outside their preferred roles, trusting energy and initiative to compensate.

Midfield balance under scrutiny

There are also decisions to be made in midfield. Lucas Bergvall returned from injury against Sunderland, and Frank has spoken positively about the Swede’s ability to stretch play in behind. That quality is valued, particularly away from home, yet circumstances may delay his return to the starting XI.

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Xavi Simons is back available after completing a three match suspension following his red card against Liverpool. Given his sharpness and positional intelligence, he is expected to start, with Bergvall more likely to provide an option from the bench.

Further back, there is cautious optimism around Destiny Udogie. The left back has stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury and could make the matchday squad, though Dominic Solanke remains unavailable despite returning to training.

“He [Udogie] is training and he’s looking better, so that’s positive,” Frank said. “No [Solanke won’t be involved against Bournemouth]. Positive, going forward.”