Vicario’s Injury: Spurs’ Setback & Premier League’s Top Goalkeepers

Tottenham’s stunning 4-0 win over Manchester City at the Etihad may have been the shock result of the season, but it came at a cost. Star goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who made crucial saves to deny Erling Haaland, suffered a fractured ankle and now faces months on the sidelines.

This development not only shifts Spurs’ momentum but also highlights the pivotal role top goalkeepers play in the Premier League. We delve into what Vicario’s absence could mean for Spurs and analyse the league’s standout keepers this season.

Spurs Suffer a Blow with Vicario’s Absence

Guglielmo Vicario has been instrumental for Tottenham under Ange Postecoglou. Against City, he made five saves, preventing 1.1 goals according to xG data, bringing his total to 2.93 goals prevented this season—the fourth-highest in the Premier League. His exceptional shot-stopping and proactive defensive style have been key to Spurs’ success, as evidenced by his 1.69 defensive actions outside the penalty area per 90 minutes, placing him in the 89th percentile among Europe’s top five leagues.

Now, Spurs must turn to backup keeper Fraser Forster, a solid but less dynamic option. Forster has already conceded three goals in his limited appearances this season and has not started a Premier League match since May 2023, during a run where he let in 18 goals over seven games. This weekend, he faces a Fulham side that has scored in 11 of their 12 league matches—a daunting task for the veteran stopper.

Premier League’s Top Performers Between the Sticks

Vicario’s injury reminds us of the impact a standout goalkeeper can have on a team’s fortunes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the other top-performing goalkeepers in the Premier League this season, whose presence could sway matches and betting markets.

Andre Onana: Manchester United

After a shaky start, Andre Onana has established himself as one of the league’s premier shot-stoppers. Leading the Premier League with 4.5 goals prevented, Onana’s resurgence has been crucial for United, who face an Everton side struggling to find the net at Old Trafford this weekend. Everton average just 0.83 goals per game and have failed to score in their last three meetings with United.

Dean Henderson: Crystal Palace

Despite Crystal Palace’s struggles, Dean Henderson has excelled, preventing 3.02 goals this season, the third-highest tally in the league. His heroics have helped Palace secure clean sheets against Manchester United and Tottenham. Palace host Newcastle this weekend, a side they’ve remarkably held scoreless in four of their last five meetings. Backing Palace to keep things tight defensively could prove to be a smart bet.

What’s Next for Tottenham?

Spurs’ Champions League ambitions hang in the balance as they adjust to life without Vicario. While Forster offers experience, his numbers suggest Tottenham’s defensive solidity could waver. This presents an opportunity for bettors to target Fulham in the goals markets this weekend. Meanwhile, clubs with in-form goalkeepers like Onana and Henderson continue to offer value in low-scoring bets.

Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.

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