At a glance:
- De Zerbi makes interesting Richarlison claim
- Brazilian expected to start vs Leeds
- Tottenham face Leeds tonight
Tottenham can go four points clear of the relegation zone with a win against Leeds United later today.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side have been in good form in recent weeks and will be buoyed by West Ham’s defeat against Arsenal.
The Hammers are a point below them despite playing one more game, meaning Tottenham can extend the gap with a positive result today.
The North London outfit were good against Aston Villa and deservedly got an away win. However, De Zerbi admits he made a mistake with Richarlison, which he’ll look to avoid against the Peacocks.
Richarlison was fatigued vs Aston Villa
Richarlison is Tottenham’s top scorer this season with ten Premier League goals to his name. He is expected to lead the line once again, with Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel playing either side of him.
The Brazilian produced a fighting display against Aston Villa and got his name on the scoresheet with a brilliant first-half header.
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However, as the game went on, he looked tired but wasn’t substituted until stoppage time.
And De Zerbi admits he knew the Brazilian was struggling but still opted not to withdraw him, which he acknowledges was his mistake.
“Yes [he needed a rest] because he worked very hard in Birmingham. I think my mistake was not to substitute him before the end of the game,” said the Tottenham boss in his pre-match press conference.
“But Richarlison was playing very well, he was important in the set-pieces and he played a great game. But just fatigue.”
Richarlison vital for Tottenham
Richarlison wears his heart on his sleeve and has been part of a relegation battle with Everton, so he’s been there and done it.
He has been fantastic in recent weeks for De Zerbi and scored a priceless goal against Villa that gave Tottenham a two-goal lead.
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The North London outfit have only three senior fit forwards, so it goes without saying that Richarlison is expected to start each of their next three Premier League games.
And if he can add a goal or two to his already creditable tally of ten, Tottenham should be able to avoid relegation quite comfortably.
