Roberto De Zerbi expressed greater satisfaction with Tottenham's performance than the three points gained after his team secured a crucial 2-1 victory at Aston Villa, moving above the relegation zone with three Premier League matches remaining. The Italian manager emphasized that the manner of the win should strengthen belief within his squad that they can avoid relegation.
Match Overview
First-half goals from Conor Gallagher and Richarlison proved sufficient for Tottenham to secure consecutive league victories for the first time since August. Emiliano Buendia scored a consolation goal in the 96th minute with Villa's first shot on target. Spurs now sit one point above West Ham and two behind Nottingham Forest, who have a game in hand at Chelsea on Monday.
De Zerbi's Reaction
De Zerbi, who became Tottenham's third head coach of the season last month, was delighted with his side's display. "I'm really pleased with the performance with the ball, without the ball," he said. "Without the ball we showed great courage and with the ball great qualities. I'm happy for this type of performance more than three points. OK, we have one point more than West Ham but the most important thing was to play a great game, to believe more and more in ourselves and in our qualities and then we have to keep the focus and improve."
Gallagher's Impact
De Zerbi praised Gallagher, stating, "When he plays well, we play with 12 players." The England midfielder returned the compliment, highlighting De Zerbi's positive influence. "I can't speak highly enough of him," Gallagher said. "He's been so good. Every player has taken to him, everyone trusts him, he makes you feel good, confident. He's bringing the best out of players, and it's only the start. Hopefully we can keep learning from him, hopefully we can build a great team and hopefully it can be the start of something great. We want to carry it on." Since De Zerbi succeeded Igor Tudor, Spurs have taken seven points from a possible 12.
Emery's Perspective
Unai Emery made seven changes from Villa's Europa League first-leg defeat at Nottingham Forest, and his side were second best throughout. Emery accepted that Villa must raise their game for the return fixture on Thursday, where they hold a 1-0 advantage, but defended his rotation decision. "I knew before the match, I knew my challenge: to win with some changes, but I believe in the players," said Emery, confirming captain John McGinn was omitted as a precaution. "If someone doesn't believe in the players, the supporters or the media, OK, don't believe, but it's not different when we are winning to when we are losing. OK, I accept as well some criticism."
