Tottenham Hotspur continue their Europa League campaign on Thursday when they host Fiorentina in the first leg of their last-32 tie.

Mauricio Pochettino's side narrowly missed out on top spot in the group phase as they finished one point behind Besiktas in Group C. Spurs won three, drew two and lost one of their six group games.

Fiorentina secured first place in Group K by winning four and losing one of their matches. The Italians ended the group stage three points clear of Guingamp.

Both teams are also enjoying strong domestic campaigns and are expected to be in the hunt for Champions League qualification at the end of the season.

Spurs currently occupy sixth place in the Premier League table thanks to four wins from their last six games, while Fiorentina sit in fourth position in the Serie A standings courtesy of an impressive six-match unbeaten run.

The hosts have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the encounter, though Pochettino could be tempted to rest one or two key names as he focuses on more important matters in the league.

Micah Richards and Alberto Aquilani, who both have experience in England, are likely to feature for the away side, who will be without long-term absentees Giuseppi Rossi and Federico Bernardeschi.

Spurs:

Form in Europa League: DDWWWL
Form in all competitions: WLDWWL

Possible starting lineup: Lloris; Walker, Dier, Vertonghen, Rose; Bentaleb, Mason; Lamela, Dembele, Eriksen; Kane

Fiorentina:

Form in Europa League: WWWDWL
Form in all competitions: WDDWWW

Possible starting lineup: Tatarusanu; Richards, Rodriguez, Savic, Alonso; Aquilani, Pizarro, Fernandez; Diamanti, Babacar, Gomez

Sports Mole says: 2-2

Previews by email