Roberto De Zerbi has responded to fresh criticism from Tottenham outcast Richarlison, saying the Brazilian's situation is "not my problem any more."
Richarlison wanted to leave Spurs during the summer transfer window, but a return to Everton never materialised and a proposed move to Vasco da Gama fell through after UK Deadline Day.
As a result, the Brazilian has been left out of Tottenham's first-team picture. He is not named in the 25-man Premier League squad and will not be considered for FA Cup selection in January if he is still at the club.
Ferguson criticism shared by Richarlison
After making a surprise appearance for Tottenham in the EFL Trophy at Cheltenham last week, Richarlison backed criticism of De Zerbi from Everton legend Duncan Ferguson.
"You don't leave a player like that out unless there's been a real murder: he's chinned him or there's been a proper scrap on the training ground," Ferguson was quoted as saying on The Overlap Daily.
Richarlison shared those quotes on his Instagram Stories on Saturday with the caption: "Thanks Duncan Ferguson, you are right."
De Zerbi: Focus on Coventry
De Zerbi was asked about the post when he addressed the media at Hotspur Way on Sunday ahead of Monday night's must-win home clash with newly-promoted Coventry.
"It's not my problem any more. You have to ask Vinai or Johan. It's not my problem," De Zerbi told reporters. "I know as a coach I have to support and take responsibility even when it's not my responsibility."
"I have not decided anything in this situation. If he wants to speak to me he can find me in my office until 8.30am until the evening. But I don't want to speak any more because my focus is on the Coventry game."
