Since their return to the Premier League in 2005, Tottenham have suffered only the single loss against Wigan The 1-0 reverse was Jermaine Defoe’s first game back for the club after his spell at Portsmouth and came just nine days after a comfortable 3-1 victory for the Lilywhites against the same opposition in the F.A. Cup.
All in all Spurs have put 18 goals past the Latics in just nine games with ten different scorers. Goals seem to flow in games between the two sides with an average of just over three per game with only four clean sheets out of a possible 18. This average was boosted in 2007 when Spurs equalised three times in a 3-3 draw at the JJB Stadium before thrashing the managerless Wigan 4-0 at the Lane with Jenas getting two.
The form guide suggests that Spurs should run out victors as they have four wins in their last six home matches and Wigan have drawn their last two away games. Three of the five games at the Lane since 2005 have ended in wins for Tottenham with two draws.
Just as noted against Sunderland, these two teams definitely like to get a full 90 minutes worth of football. Over a third of the goals scored are in the first or last ten minutes, so if you’re going to the game make sure you get there on time and don’t think about leaving early!
One interesting side show will be Wilson Palacios lining up against his former team with whom he spent an impressive year under Steve Bruce. The Spurs number 12 failed to find the net in 41 games for Wigan but has one in 23 after making his debut against Bolton Wanderers.
Possibly slipping under the radar will also be the potential return to White Hart Lane for Erik Edman. The defender played 31 games for Spurs between 2004/05 and returned to the Premiership in 2007, via Rennes, making 8 Premiership appearances in blue and white.
And finally, expect handshakes all around and handbags to be left in the dressing rooms. Spurs have so far been deemed the most respectful team to opposition in the Premiership, with Wigan fifth.
By Jamie Frier
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