Tottenham will be keen to get back to winning ways after their shock 1-0 defeat to Brighton last weekend when they travel to Brentford on Saturday evening. The loss coupled with Arsenal’s midweek win over Chelsea means that the north London rivals are level on points in fourth and fifth place respectively with six games to go.
Spurs had won their previous four games before the slip-up against the Seagulls but cannot afford too many more mistakes if they’re to claim a place in next season’s Champions League. And Thomas Frank’s side should provide a stern examination of their top four credentials.
The Bees will be in confident mood after winning their last three games in a row to finally allay any fears of relegation. However, Spurs won the reverse fixture 2-0 in December but the pundits are split on the outcome of Saturday’s encounter.
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Mark Lawrenson - Brentford 1-2 Tottenham
“Brentford have won their past three games, while Tottenham had a wobble against Brighton last time out just when they were gathering momentum," Lawrenson told BBC Sport.
“Bees midfielder Christian Eriksen will get a great reception from the away fans but I think his old club will leave with the points. With Tottenham's two main rivals for fourth place, Arsenal and Manchester United, playing each other earlier on Saturday, this is a big opportunity for them to improve their situation.
“I know all the teams in that race have been throwing away points recently but I can't believe Spurs will slip up again after their defeat by the Seagulls.”
Paul Merson - Brentford 2-1 Tottenham
“Brentford are on a run in the Premier League, and they're playing very well," Merson wrote in his column for Sportskeeda. "Tottenham cannot afford to underestimate them.
“Brentford won at Watford, and they were brilliant against Chelsea. This could be a tough game for Tottenham. Don't get me wrong - Spurs have the ammunition to win this game as well.
“Brentford have nothing to lose, however, and that makes them very dangerous. If Arsenal do win their game, Tottenham will need to make sure they don't lose.
“Christian Eriksen has been unbelievable for Brentford. Tottenham are his former employers, and he could haunt them and keep them from a Champions League spot this weekend.”
