Norwich vs. Tottenham: 6 Predictions for Capital One Cup Clash

The Premier League is taking a break mid-week as we focus on the Capital One League Cup. Nevertheless, this clash has plenty of Premier League quality about it.

Spurs and Norwich clearly have different aspirations in the top-flight, but both clubs have quality. It will be interesting to see which way the game goes.

Both Sides Will Field Weaker Players

Both sides have plenty of reasons to want to do well in the Premier League this season. Norwich will be keen to finish above the relegation zone, and Spurs will want to do all they can to finish high enough to ensure Champions League qualification.

Of course, a cup run is always nice, but it's never going to be as important as the League. Therefore, both teams will take the opportunity to rest some of their key players. But I still expect strong fringe teams, rather than youth teams.

Expect a Goal Feast

Something about this game tells me that it won't be one for the defenses. Both sides will go all out for the win, creating a game of football that will be enjoyable to watch. It would be nearly impossible to predict the two teams, but I'm sure there will be plenty of well-known players.

When fringe players get on a football pitch, they tend to want to prove a point to their managers. So, we may see some superb attacking talent. 

Jermain Defoe and Grant Holt Will Score from the Bench

Defoe and Holt have both proved their ability this season, but I don't expect either player to start the game. However, I would expect their respective managers to have their star forwards on the bench in case things don't go according to plan.

Therefore, there is a possibility that each striker will seize the opportunity to grab another goal when they come on.

The Losing Manager Will Declare That It's Time to Focus on the League

It's a bit of a cliche, but football managers tend to like to concentrate on the league whenever they lose a cup game. This is sort of their way of declaring that they were never that bothered anyway. But believe it or not, managers actually like winning football matches. 

Norwich City Will Win

Chris Hughton will be painfully aware that Spurs' reserves are a lot stronger than Norwich City's, so he can't afford to put out a total reserve side. Therefore, I expect Norwich to have the stronger team.

The Canaries are likely to be near full strength with only minor changes to freshen things up a little. Hughton will know that his side has a great chance to progress, and he won't want to mess that up with a weak team.

David Fox Will Prove His Premier League Worth

The lack of game time that David Fox has had this season has been one of the real surprises of the season so far. However, the League Cup has allowed Fox to play this season; he will be hoping that trend continues on Wednesday night.

A good performance from Fox could finally lead him to a Premier League opportunity in the weeks ahead.

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