Tottenham predicted XI: Antonio Conte expected to name strong team against Middlesbrough

Tottenham manager Antonio Conte’s injury list is getting bigger, with the news that new signing Rodrigo Bentancur will not make the trip to Middlesbrough due to an ankle problem.

His injury adds up to those of Japhet Tanganga, Oliver Skipp and Lucas Moura, who are all out and will watch from home in the FA Cup tonight.

Tottenham though picked up an important league win against Leeds to enhance their chances of finishing in the top four over the weekend, and the aim is to now build some momentum and try to get as far as they can in the FA Cup.

Conte is a born winner and will want to add to the record of winning trophies everywhere he goes, with the FA Cup a realistic target this season.

The Tottenham manager said: “I’m not desperate (he laughs) but you know very well I want to win.

“But (laughing) I’m not desperate or it would be very hard to continue.

“For sure it’s a great competition and previously I was lucky to reach the final two years in a row. I’d like to continue this tradition for Tottenham.

“But you know this trophy is not simple or easy, and tomorrow we have to face Middlesbrough, a tough game.

“Middlesbrough eliminated Manchester United from this competition. I want to see continuity in the performance and result of my players.”

Spurs are huge favourites for the game tonight, but the cup has always been famous for giant killings and the LillyWhites will be wary of their opponents.

Middlesbrough famously knocked Manchester United out at the last stage and Spurs will do well not to underestimate the Championship side.

With the season nearing the business end, managing the squad and keeping players fresh will be key so expect to see Antonio Conte give rest to some players and opportunities to those who have not played so much this season.

Hero of the dramatic last-gasp win against Leicester, Steven Bergwijn, is expected to come in to give the tireless Son Heung-min a rest.

Spanish wing back Sergio Reguilon is due to get another chance to impress at left back, while in-form Harry Kane looks likely to keep his place.

Tottenham’s predicted XI v Middlesbrough: Lloris; Sanchez, Romero, Davies; Doherty, Winks, Hojbjerg, Reguilon; Bergwijn, Kulusevski, Kane.