The Dugout Discussion – Tottenham vs West Ham

Sunday presents a solitary encounter, as Tottenham Hotspur host West Ham United in the second of their three successive London derbies.

The home team haven’t tasted defeat since the opening Gameweek of the season, while the Hammers go into today’s clash having suffered a 2-0 reverse at Watford in their last away trip – their only defeat on the road this campaign.

Spurs rank joint-top for goals (nine) and top for shots on target (23) over the last four Gameweeks, highlighting the rhythm of their attack. As for the resolve of their back line, only Manchester United (one goal conceded) boast a better home record (four goals conceded) than the North London club. Those managers who’ve invested in Spurs rearguard will be encouraged by the fact that three of their four shut-outs have arrived on home turf.

Notwithstanding their recent 2-0 defeat at Vicarage Road, the Irons rank joint-second for goals scored (12) in away matches. Tottenham will certainly be wary that Slaven Bilic’s charges have excelled in local derbies this term – trumping Chelsea, Arsenal and Crystal Palace through the first 10 Gameweeks – but also draw heart from the fact they’ve failed register a clean sheet in seven outings and will be without the significant influence of Dimitri Payet.