The Tottenham Hotspur head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, faced a barrage of questions at his pre-match press conference, with the spotlight shining on his captain, Cristian Romero, and the team's injury concerns. De Zerbi addressed the fans' anger over Romero's absence, the latest on Djed Spence's injury, and the potential return of Dejan Kulusevski.
On Romero's decision to travel to Argentina, De Zerbi explained that it was a mutual agreement with the medical staff, prioritizing the player's recovery. He defended Romero's commitment, stating that he has been consistent and correct throughout his time with the club. Despite the captain's absence, De Zerbi remained focused on the game, emphasizing the importance of team spirit and the future of Tottenham.
De Zerbi discussed the injury news, confirming that Dominic Solanke is available but the extent of Maddison's involvement remains uncertain. He also addressed the incident involving Djed Spence, acknowledging the potential for a red card but choosing to concentrate on the match ahead. The coach praised Spence's character and expressed happiness about his World Cup call-up.
When asked about the team's strategy, De Zerbi emphasized the need to maintain their style and mentality, focusing on counter-attacks and utilizing their players' qualities. He highlighted the importance of concentration and ignoring external factors, such as the crowd and West Ham's performance.
The coach reflected on the club's journey, acknowledging the unexpected situation they find themselves in after winning a European trophy. He expressed his determination to fight without excuses and emphasized the significance of the game for the club's future, history, and pride.
De Zerbi also touched on the team selection, mentioning various options for the right midfield position. He praised Micky van de Ven's performance and relationship-building, labeling him as the best center-back in the Premier League. The coach concluded by emphasizing the team's hunger and spirit, aiming to secure a positive outcome on Sunday.
