It’s a little weird to see Tottenham without either Harry Kane or Heung Min Son; one has gone to seek silverware elsewhere while the other is on the hunt for national glory.

Tottenham has what it takes to do the job in the absence of the two, with Dejan Kulusevski, Richarlison, and Timo Werner all available for selection, and the best piece of news came their way over the weekend: the return to fitness of James Maddison.

The return of Ivan Toney is a hell of good news to Brentford too; the England striker served his football ban and is now back into action, scoring a deft free kick on his return to show everyone what the Bees have been missing.

With Bryan Mbeumo out injured until March and Yoan Wissa off to AFCON, the Bees needed their captain to step up and lead from the front. The trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is a huge test of their healing process; they will not hide.

Ange Postecoglou has been a blessing to Tottenham. His clear plans and playing style are evident; you can see what he’s trying to do, and he is a system man; he doesn’t change his plans even when certain players are absent.

How will they line up? Tottenham will be ready to do the same thing they have always done: expansive football with a ridiculous high line. It has punished them many times, but with injured players returning to the fold, they will be a joy to watch.

Pape Matar Sarr could be available after returning from AFCON following Senegal’s shock elimination in the hands of the hosts, Ivory Coast. Yves Bissouma is still away as well, and their club captain, Heung Min Son, is still away. Spurs fans must feel bad seeing South Korea progress on penalties late on Tuesday.

Brentford has injury worries of their own. The international tournament has also taken three of their regulars, Sam Ghoddos, Frank Onyeka, and Wissa, but they can load the midfield with Mattias Jensen, Victor Janelt, and Gamsgaard, with Josh Da Silva and Lewis-Potter flying as wingbacks.

Brentford needs a result; they’re only four points away from the drop zone; they can’t afford any more slip-ups, but Tottenham also wants the top of the table; they’re not so far away, but dropping points at home against Brentford will do them no good.

Verdict: Tottenham to win