Another match without Kane and Alli: Can Spurs survive?

Cape Town - The most glaring aspect from the analysis ahead of this highly anticipated Premier League fixture, is the absence of so many key Tottenham Hotspur players.

Another day at the office without Dele Alli or Harry Kane.

The bigger - although less conspicuous problem - is that of a Manager whose body is currently in London, while his mind is on the other side of the United Kingdom.

Speculation about his managerial future will not go away and not everybody is convinced that his heart remains with Tottenham.

The series of results produced since the speculation started, suggests correlation but not necessarily causation. Without more compelling evidence it becomes increasingly difficult to accuse Mauricio Pochettino of neglecting his team's campaign but is also hard to not think it.

There is a meaningful amount at stake for both teams ahead of Wednesday's clash.

Tottenham are still fighting to remain among the top four in England - a very realistic prospect really. Meanwhile, Watford are fighting to remain among the top eight - also a realistic prospect.

If Tottenham are going to walk away with maximum points here, they are going to have to work for them. Of that, you can be assured.

The jury is out on the psychology in the team, given unceremonious exits from two cup competitions in a matter of days.

Spurs have also failed to score in two of their previous four matches. They have become toothless in front of goal and the Kane/Alli factor cannot not be ignored. Watford will be hugely encouraged by that.

Watford have never won at Tottenham since 1985. Wednesday might just be your proverbial case of history in the making. The hosts have picked up just 35 percent of their total points at home this season. That includes four losses.

Likewise, Watford have been impressive on the road, better than their last Premier League campaign.

LEAGUE POSITION

Tottenham: 3rd

Watford: 7th

FORM GUIDE

Tottenham: (L) v Crystal Palace 2-0, (L) v Chelsea 2-1, (W) v Fulham 2-1

Watford: (W) v Newcastle 2-0, (D) v Burnley 0-0, (W) v Crystal Palce 2-1

INJURIES AND SUSPENSION

Tottenham: D. Alli (Hamstring), H. Kane (Ankle/Foot), V. Wanyama (Knee), M. Sissoko (Groin)

Watford: S. Prödl (Knee)