De Zerbi’s Spurs Lifted by Bentancur’s Comeback, While Romero Faces Season-End Injury

The Uruguayan midfielder, who has been sidelined since early January due to a serious hamstring injury that required surgery, is back in contention.

Currently sitting in 18th place with just six games left to play, Spurs are perilously close to facing their first relegation from the top flight since 1977, and are two points adrift of safety.

The returns of Bentancur and fellow midfielder Yves Bissouma will be welcomed by De Zerbi ahead of his first home match in charge. However, he has confirmed that Argentine international Cristian Romero will miss the rest of the season.

“Bentancur is available for selection,” the Italian manager informed reporters on Friday. “I’m unsure if he will start the match, but Bissouma is fit to play.”

Tottenham’s captain Romero sustained a knee injury following a collision with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during their 1-0 defeat against Sunderland last weekend. This loss extended their winless league streak to 14 matches.

“I genuinely feel for Romero and his injury,” said De Zerbi. “Firstly, everyone should know that he is suffering from this injury and that he is unable to participate for the remainder of the season.”

“He is an outstanding captain for us. We must remain positive as we can count on Radu Dragusin and Kevin Danso, both of whom are more than capable of stepping up and providing quality.”

De Zerbi, who is Tottenham’s third manager of the season, faces the challenge of reversing the club’s fortunes quickly and emphasised that their chances of survival rely as much on mindset as it does on skill.

De Zerbi aims to boost morale

This week, he attempted to enhance team spirit by taking the first team out for a meal.

“I need to get to know my players better and better each week,” said De Zerbi. “We have no time to waste. I want to instill my football philosophy, but I am also working to cultivate a positive atmosphere and strong relationships with the players.”

“Currently, for Tottenham, the qualities of the players are significant, but what truly matters is the spirit and dedication they show towards the club.”

“I cannot guarantee a win tomorrow just because we went out for dinner. The food was excellent.

“However, if we secure a victory, I’m willing to pay for dinner every week. I firmly believe in the importance of human connections and the spirit and determination of the players. We need everyone on the pitch to support each other and strive towards a common goal.”

“If we fail to achieve our aim, everyone stands to lose something in their career.”

De Zerbi, whose tenure with Brighton commenced against Spurs, stated that Kinsky would remain in goal as first-choice Guglielmo Vicario is still recuperating from a hernia operation.