Making Plans For Nigel

Fixture timing is one of football’s great incalculable factors where the luck doesn’t necessarily even out over a season. When he took over, Jose Mourinho might have looked at Tottenham’s January fixtures with some encouragement. Yes, they would face Liverpool, but the remaining clashes against Norwich, Southampton and Watford might bring a decent points haul.

Unfortunately for the Portuguese, things change. The Saints ran out worthy winners in Spurs’ last away match and tomorrow suddenly looks just as daunting at Watford - the hosts offer a compelling option at best odds of 23/10 with BetVictor.

 
Nigel Pearson has surprised many by proving he remains an impact manager at Premier League level; 13pts from the Hornets’ last five outings tells its own story.

Spurs can’t justify favouritism here. Just two away victories all season, no away clean sheets, having conceded 18 times in a row on the road in the top flight. Without Kane, it’s hard to see who drags them through this test.