Conte must brutally axe Spurs' £74k-p/w "weak link" who loses the ball every 4 touches - opinion

Tottenham’s clash against West Ham on Sunday afternoon is a colossal fixture for both sides.

Indeed, it could be season-defining with both teams gunning for a place in the UEFA Champions League next season.

Spurs have been hit and miss of late and they will need to be prepared for a tough encounter against the Irons this weekend.

After all, they will be full of confidence after edging past Sevilla in the Europa League in a thrilling encounter only a few days ago.

Of course, the Hammers did have to contend with extra-time which gives Antonio Conte’s men an immediate edge, but how can he best go about making sure his side come away with a crucial three points?

Well, the decision to rest or axe Matt Doherty this weekend could be a vital change that the Italian makes.

Only a month ago it looked as though the Irishman’s days at Tottenham were dusted as Football FanCast looked at the amount of money he’s cost the club since signing.

Yet, in recent weeks he has been a revelation. The right-wing back has registered three assists and a goal in his last five outings.

Sadly, his form in his last two matches has been rather questionable.

Doherty was given a rough time against Manchester United as they lost 3-2, being given a WhoScored rating of just 6.29. His performance, according to data readings, wasn’t too much better against Brighton last time out either, achieving a performance rating of only 6.3.

Indeed, versus the Seagulls, he was not only poor in possession but lacked the confidence to his game that we had witnessed in the earlier stages of the month.

He lost the ball on 15 occasions, meaning he ceded possession once every four touches and also managed just one cross, of which was inaccurate.

As a wing-back, it is your job