While most of those who sat out international duty have returned for arguably the most important away day in Tottenham’s season, Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed centre-back Toby Alderweireld will be out of action until after Christmas.

For arguably the best defence in the Premier League, whose goals conceded column this season is only bettered by Manchester City, it represents a significant blow – especially ahead of the north London derby with bitter rivals Arsenal.

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Pochettino does have some options to fall back on at the heart of defence. Alongside centre-halves Jan Vertonghen and Davinson Sanchez, Ben Davies and Eric Dier can both fill in there if necessary – while Alderweireld’s absence could pave the way for summer signing Juan Foyth to get his chance in the Premier League.

But does Pochettino have enough depth at his disposal to continue using three central defenders, as we’ve seen from Spurs on the most-part this season, or should Alderweireld’s injury force him into a formation rethink – starting with this weekend? Let us know how you think Spurs should set up defensively against the Gunners by voting below…