Tottenham Hotspur are in a precarious position in the Premier League and will need every player to step up during their remaining seven games.
The north London side announced this week that Mohammed Kudus has suffered a setback in his injury. He is, hence, expected to miss the remainder of the season. Wilson Odobert will also not play this season, while Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison might return for a few games.
Hence, the currently fit and available players have a major responsibility to prevent Tottenham from getting relegated.
The club have brought in Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager. His playing style could suit some of the players in the Spurs squad, as they played a possession-based attacking style under Ange Postecoglou as well.
However, there are some players who could benefit more than others in De Zerbi’s system. Moreover, due to their positions and form, they will play a key role in Tottenham’s remaining seven games.
5 Tottenham players who could help them avoid relegation (Ranked)
5. Pedro Porro
Pedro Porro is arguably one of the most underrated players in Tottenham’s squad. The Spaniard is known for his outstanding crosses, but his general technical level is also brilliant. There are, of course, question marks over his defending, but it has improved in the last two seasons.
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De Zerbi’s system urges defenders to pass their way out and the fullbacks to help in the build-up. Porro was excellent under Postecoglou and could play a similar role under the Italian.
The 26-year-old is also one of the few players who never gives up on the pitch. Along with his quality, his passion and determination could also be crucial in the remaining seven games.
4. Mathys Tel
In an ideal world, Tel would be developing under a winger in his prime like Ademola Lookman. However, this is Tottenham, and we demand young players to step up, and Tel has certainly done so.
The 20-year-old has been a positive influence whenever he’s played. He always looks to push the team forward and has an excellent shot on him. Moreover, his deliveries from corners have also caused trouble for the opposition this season.
Kaoru Mitoma previously explained how De Zerbi’s system suited him. Tel could look to have a similar development under the Italian manager at Spurs.
3. Richarlison
De Zerbi named Richarlison as one of the crucial players in the last seven games. He is one of the only players in the Tottenham squad to have experienced a relegation battle. He also came out of it a hero, helping Everton avoid the drop in the 2021-22 season.
Spurs will hope for a similar impact from the Brazilian striker this season. He is already their top scorer this season with nine goals and three assists in 26 Premier League games.
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Richarlison could play a similar role to Danny Welbeck at Brighton under De Zerbi. He could be a good target man and also make space for the likes of Tel and Xavi Simons in attack.
2. Archie Gray
Archie Gray has been excellent this season and is arguably the leading contender for Tottenham’s Player of the Season award. He has again played in multiple positions, but he has shown his real prowess in midfield.
Amidst Spurs’ poor performances and results, Gray has always shown for the ball on the pitch. He has also tried to create from a deeper position by carrying the ball or with his ability on the diagonal pass. With midfield being a crucial aspect under De Zerbi, Gray will have to improve even further.
It’s no coincidence that Tottenham’s last league win came on December 28, when Gray scored the winner against Crystal Palace.
1. Cristian Romero
The Tottenham captain has faced immense criticism this season, some justified, some not so much. However, he must put it all behind him and focus on these remaining seven games.
Romero was a big reason why Spurs won the UEFA Europa League last season. He delivered incredible performances in the knockout games and won the Player of the Match award in the final. The World Cup winner must deliver similar performances in the remaining seven games.
The Argentine centre-back’s playing style also perfectly suits De Zerbi’s system. He is arguably the best passer in this Tottenham squad and can build attacks from defense. With a squad lacking in technical quality, Romero can be crucial.
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Moreover, the 27-year-old has already scored some crucial goals for Tottenham this season. His drive and leadership, along with his football ability, will likely decide whether Spurs stay up or not.
Overall, Tottenham will need contributions from every available member of the squad who is fit and available in the remaining seven games.
They have reached a stage where even one mistake could prove to be costly. However, even one win, especially against Sunderland on Sunday, could prove to be huge to build momentum and avoid relegation.
