Dennis Cirkin is determined to spoil Roberto De Zerbi's first match as Tottenham manager when Sunderland visit north London on Sunday. The 24-year-old left-back, who came through Tottenham's academy without making a senior appearance, now hopes to haunt his former club in a crucial Premier League clash.
Cirkin joined Sunderland in 2021 after failing to break into the Spurs first team, despite being included in two Europa League matchday squads under Jose Mourinho. Injuries and the arrival of Sergio Reguilon limited his opportunities, prompting a move to the Stadium of Light, where he played a key role in the club's promotion from League One and subsequent rise to the Premier League.
This season, Cirkin has struggled for consistent game time due to fitness issues, managing only five successive Premier League starts in January. He featured for 59 minutes against Tottenham earlier in the campaign but has played just five minutes since early February. A minor injury setback and competition for places have limited his involvement, though he returned to the bench before the international break.
De Zerbi, appointed as Tottenham boss during the international break, faces a side battling to preserve their Premier League status. The Italian has had time to work with his squad, but injury concerns persist, with Mohammed Kudus ruled out for the season after a fresh setback. Cirkin, meanwhile, is eager to make an impact against his boyhood club and prove his worth on the big stage.
