De Zerbi’s Spurs Strengthened by Bentancur’s Comeback, While Romero Faces Season-Ending Injury

Uruguayan midfielder Bentancur has been sidelined since early January due to a severe hamstring injury that required surgical intervention.

Currently, Spurs find themselves in 18th position with just six matches left to play, trailing two points behind the safety zone and at risk of suffering relegation from the top tier for the first time since 1977.

The anticipated return of Bentancur, along with fellow midfielder Yves Bissouma, comes as welcome news for the club’s new manager De Zerbi as he prepares for his inaugural home match in charge. However, he also confirmed that Argentina international Cristian Romero will be absent for the remainder of the season.

“Bentancur is fit to play,” the Italian manager told journalists on Friday. “I can’t say for certain if he will start. Bissouma is also available.”

Tottenham’s captain Romero suffered a knee injury after colliding with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during last weekend’s 1-0 defeat against Sunderland, extending their winless league streak to 14 matches.

“I’m truly sorry for Romero and his injury,” De Zerbi remarked.

“Firstly, it’s important for everyone to know that he is in pain due to this injury and is unable to play for us for the rest of the season.”

“He is a fantastic captain for us. We need to maintain a positive outlook; we have Radu Dragusin and Kevin Danso available, both of whom can bring quality to our game.”

De Zerbi, the third manager Spurs have had this season, faces a race against time to turn the club’s fortunes around and believes that their chances of survival hinge on both mentality and skill.

De Zerbi aims to boost morale

This week, he sought to uplift team spirits by taking the first team out for a dinner.

“I need to get to know my players better each week,” De Zerbi explained. “We have no time to waste. I aim to share my football philosophy while fostering a positive atmosphere and good relations with the players.”

“At this moment, the players’ abilities are crucial for Tottenham, but their spirit and dedication to the club are even more vital.”

“I can’t predict if having dinner together will lead to a win tomorrow. The food was excellent.”

“However, if we do win, I’ll happily treat the team to dinner every week. I value human relationships, the spirit, and the soul of the players. We need everyone on the pitch working together towards a common goal.”

“If we fall short of our target, everyone stands to lose something in their careers.”

De Zerbi, who began his spell with Brighton against Spurs, has confirmed that Kinsky will remain in goal as first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario continues to recover from a hernia operation.