Five Tottenham players who could earn Roberto De Zerbi a debut win at Sunderland - Opinion
We have taken a look at five Tottenham Hotspur players who could play a pivotal role in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game against Sunderland AFC.
Roberto De Zerbi has already begun settling into life in north London following his appointment earlier this week.
The new Spurs boss has since sat down with the club for his first interview, addressing several issues and outlining what is to come under his reign.
His first game, however, does not come until April 12, when Tottenham face Sunderland in the Premier League after almost a month without action due to the international break, along with no FA Cup or Champions League commitments.
With that fixture in mind, we have now taken a look at five players who could play a pivotal role in earning De Zerbi his first win at Tottenham.
Antonin Kinsky has a chance to take the Tottenham number one spot
Based on his setup at previous clubs, it is clear that De Zerbi prefers players who are comfortable on the ball.
In his first interview with Tottenham, the former Brighton manager stated that he attacks with 11 and defends with 11, highlighting just how vital every player on the pitch is.
However, the big question then becomes Antonin Kinsky or Guglielmo Vicario? Based on their displays, the general perception is that Vicario struggles with his feet, with even the official Premier League page controversially poking fun at the Spurs number one.
Kinsky, on the other hand, is generally viewed as much better with the ball at his feet, although his howlers at Atletico Madrid have dented that particular reputation.
Kinsky will feature next weekend, given Vicario’s injury, handing him a unique chance at redemption. His ball-playing ability could be crucial if Spurs are to get off to a winning start under their new boss.
Cristian Romero’s form on Argentina duty must continue
Cristian Romero, the Tottenham captain for now, could also play a big role if Spurs are to secure all three points at the Stadium of Light.
It may sound strange given that Romero was visibly not giving his all when Nottingham Forest added a second last time out, where he was seen jogging back rather sluggishly.
But Romero has since taken responsibility and stated he will give everything in the final seven games.
He should fit naturally into De Zerbi’s system due to his ball-playing ability and desire to improve Spurs’ situation.
De Zerbi is also likely to get a confident Romero following his impressive displays with Argentina during the international break, and if he carries that form to north London, Spurs could be looking at a first win under their Italian boss.
In-form Archie Gray will be crucial for De Zerbi
Seeing Archie Gray included on our list of players who could be vital for De Zerbi against Sunderland will not surprise many Spurs fans, given his impressive displays this season.
There is a strong argument that the youngster has been the standout player under the two managers who have taken charge of Tottenham this season.
Under Igor Tudor, Gray looked confident, unafraid to get on the ball in midfield and dictate play – performing like a product of la maisa.
He also carried that form into England U21 duty, grabbing a goal for his country. If he continues playing at that level, he will be crucial for De Zerbi when Spurs travel to Sunderland.
Mohammed Kudus races against time for De Zerbi’s first game
Another player who could be crucial next weekend is Mohammed Kudus. Spurs have clearly lacked a real threat on the right since his injury.
Igor Tudor revealed that the Ghanaian was set for a return around the end of the international break.
Still, Kudus was not seen in De Zerbi’s first training session, although that does not rule him out of the Sunderland clash.
De Zerbi is known to be a big fan, having tried to sign him while at Brighton. The two could now work together in the coming days, and if it clicks, Kudus could make a real difference – though Spurs will be hoping he is ready in time.
Richarlison’s role under Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham
While De Zerbi may find selection straightforward in other areas, choosing a centre-forward could prove more difficult.
As it stands, Richarlison, Dominic Solanke and Kolo Muani are all fit, giving the Spurs boss a variety of options. There is, however, a feeling that Richarlison could be his preferred choice against Sunderland.
The Brazil international has shown he is ready for the fight in this relegation scrap and has also proven his ability in front of goal, netting ten times this season.
He looks suited to De Zerbi’s style, and if selected, it would not be a surprise to see him find the net in such an attacking system.
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