TOTTENHAM'S chances of winning the Champions League appear to be over after crashing to defeat against Ajax at home in the first leg of this season's semi-final.
But they are out to seal a return to Europe's top table for next term by bouncing back at Bournemouth ahead of their quest for an Amsterdam salvage mission.
Third-placed Spurs head to the south coast sitting four points ahead of bitter rivals Arsenal, who are just outside the Champions League places.
With just two games to go it's hard to see the Gunners making up that ground, especially as they have their own European distraction in the shape of a Europa League semi.
And it's just as well for Spurs as I can see them slipping up at Bournemouth in a game they could well do without between those two Ajax clashes. The Cherries are 10/3 with Betfred to win and that looks excellent value.
Pochettino's side looked physically and emotionally drained in the first half against Ajax as they chased shadows and the Dutch masters zipped the ball about for fun.
The introduction for Mo Sissoko brought Spurs back to life and they gave it more of a go in the second period but there's still the nagging suspicion their squad isn't big enough to fight properly on two fronts.
When Pochettino turned to his bench on Tuesday in a bid to find a late leveller, all he could do was replace his two full-backs with Ben Davies and Juan Foyth.
Injuries aren't helping, with talisman Harry Kane out for the season and the likes of Erik Lamela, Harry Winks and Serge Aurier on the sidelines.
Defender Jan Vertonghen was forced off against Ajax after a sickening head injury and although the club later confirmed he had not suffered concussion, it's hard to see him playing in this one.
The only boost for Pochettino is Korean livewire Son Hueng-Min is back for both this game and the second leg against Ajax after suspension ruled him out on Tuesday. He should start this one and is worth backing a 6/5 with 888 Sport for anytime scorer.
Bournemouth have lots of injuries themselves with seven stars definitely out and doubts over Nathaniel Clyne and Dan Gosling.
But their main man are fit and firing, with Callum Wilson bagging a double in last week's thrilling draw with Southampton and Ryan Fraser chipping in with another assist.
The Scot's pace could cause a tired Spurs defence plenty of problems so try backing Fraser for anytime scorer at 4/1 with Paddy Power.
This English Premier League match between Bournemouth and Tottenham will be played on May 4, 2019 and kick off at 12:30. Check below for our tipsters best Bournemouth vs Tottenham prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.