Tottenham Hotspur travel to Anfield on Tuesday for a Carabao Cup third-round tie that carries significant extra weight for several reasons.
Liverpool host Spurs in what is widely regarded as the standout fixture of the Carabao Cup third round, with both clubs hungry for a positive result.
The occasion is given additional storyline interest by Andrew Robertson’s return to Anfield, his first appearance at the ground since leaving the club this summer.
Spurs head into the cup tie without a goal in four Premier League matches, a run that has piled pressure on the squad to deliver a performance.
Their most recent league outing saw them face Everton, where a bright start ultimately counted for nothing as the Toffees dug in and secured a point.
The Lilywhites remain without several key players through injury, with Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert, and Xavi Simons all sidelined with long-term knee problems.
Mykailo Mudryk is also unavailable for selection, ruled out with an ankle issue that continues to keep him away from first-team involvement.
James Maddison has been restricted to just two cameo substitute appearances so far this season and could finally earn a starting berth against Liverpool.
Maddison has not started a match for the club since May 2025, making Tuesday’s cup tie a potential milestone moment in his return to regular action.
The predicted Tottenham starting XI lines up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Kinsky in goal behind a back four of Gray, Tosin, Senesi, and Robertson.
Bentancur and Bergvall are expected to form the double pivot in midfield, providing cover and drive from deep positions throughout the contest.
Kudus, Maddison, and Tel are anticipated to operate behind the lone striker, with Marmoush leading the line as Spurs look to end their goalless streak.