Spurs boss Pochettino could start with Winks

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Harry Winks could start for Tottenham in their Champions League game against APOEL Nicosia this evening.

Spurs are without a number of players, including Christian Eriksen, who has been ruled out after going down with an illness.

The injured Mousa Dembele and the suspended Dele Alli are also unavailable, so boss Mauricio Pochettino is considering starting with youngster Winks in midfield.

Speaking at a news conference ahead of the match, Pochettino said: “Yes, maybe he can start. We still need to assess the squad in one last training session but he is one of the players who has the possibility to start.

“Christian is a very important player for us but we need to move on and find a way to perform and win without him. I am not a manager who will cry (about an absent player). It’s about the collective effort.”

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Having beaten beaten Borussia Dortmund at Wembley, and with games against Real Madrid to come, Pochettino added that it is vital his team do not slip up against the group underdogs.

He said: “After doing so well against Borussia Dortmund, it is a must-win. There is no excuse. For our future in the Champions League, it is so important we win tomorrow.

“The fans expect us to win the game but the Champions League is so tough.

“I have watched APOEL play in their local league and against Real Madrid. They have good players and it will be a very dangerous game tomorrow. We need to be focused.”