Tottenham’s expected starting lineup vs West Ham as Frank considers Conor Gallagher decision amid Joao Palhinha doubts

This is the Tottenham side we anticipate Thomas Frank will name for Saturday’s vital Premier League London derby against West Ham United. Frank has several important decisions to make as Spurs host the Hammers in north London, with both teams in urgent need of points.

West Ham arrive in N17 as the lowest-ranked London club in the league, stuck in the relegation zone with just 14 points and only three wins to their name this season. Tottenham’s own form has also been disappointing, sitting 14th in the table and recording just two victories in their last 13 matches. As a result, a convincing home display is crucial following their poor Premier League record at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs could hand a debut to new signing Conor Gallagher after his £34.7m move from Atletico Madrid. The 25-year-old’s versatility allows him to operate as either a box-to-box midfielder or an advanced number ten, and his recent match involvement suggests he is ready to start straight away. His energy and work rate could be key in lifting both the team and the crowd, particularly as he will miss the midweek clash with Borussia Dortmund and needs minutes here.

Gallagher’s arrival is timely, with Rodrigo Bentancur ruled out for three months after undergoing hamstring surgery. There are also doubts over Joao Palhinha, who has not featured in recent training footage and may be carrying a minor issue, potentially leading to him being rested ahead of the Dortmund game. If that is the case, Archie Gray could continue in midfield alongside Gallagher, while Lucas Bergvall—back in training following injury—may also feature.

In attack, Frank’s choices are limited due to injuries, meaning the front three used in the second half against Aston Villa are expected to start again. Dominic Solanke is likely to make a bigger contribution from the bench as he continues to regain full fitness.

At left-back, either Ben Davies or Djed Spence could fill in until Destiny Udogie is ready to return, possibly against Dortmund. Davies would provide a more natural wide option, while Spence offers pace and attacking thrust.
Taking all factors into account, this is the lineup we expect Frank to select against West Ham.