Tottenham suffered a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland, with relegation looming.
Tottenham showed genuine signs of improvement under Roberto De Zerbi but were unfortunate to lose 1-0 at the Stadium of Light, with Nuno Tavares’ Mukiele’s deflected effort wrong-footing Kinsky in what was a cruel way to lose a match that suggested De Zerbi’s methods are beginning to take hold. The energy and structure were noticeably better, but discipline remains a persistent and damaging problem that cost Spurs dearly once again. As a result, Tottenham remain in 18th place, two points behind West Ham.
Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings
Antonin Kinsky (6/10): A vastly improved display following his Champions League nightmare against Atletico Madrid. Made several promising saves throughout and commanded his area with considerably more authority than his debut suggested he was capable of. Could do absolutely nothing about the deflected goal that beat him, and his overall performance will have given De Zerbi genuine encouragement about his long-term potential between the posts.
Pedro Porro (5/10): Worked hard in both phases and showed his usual attacking intent down the right flank. Disciplinary issues continued to be a problem however, contributing to the pattern of ill-timed fouls that has undermined Tottenham throughout the season.
Cristian Romero (5/10): The standout defensive performer on the night tainted by a booking. Commanding in the air, aggressive in the challenge and vocal in his organisation of those around him. Led by example throughout and looked every inch the captain this club needs during its most difficult period. His withdrawal through injury in the 71st minute was an unwelcome development.
Micky van de Ven (5/10): A more composed display than his recent outings had suggested he was capable of. Showed some of the pace and positional intelligence that made him so highly regarded before this catastrophic season. Still not fully back to his best, but this was a step in the right direction. Also got booked.
Destiny Udogie (5/10): Provided reasonable cover on the left and offered some attacking threat going forward. Worked diligently within De Zerbi’s structure and was one of the more willing participants in what felt like a team beginning to understand what their new manager demands.
Archie Gray (6/10): Energetic and purposeful in midfield, typifying the improved team-wide intensity De Zerbi has clearly demanded from his first days in training. Replaced by Palhinha in the 63rd minute as part of a triple substitution, having done his job effectively.
Conor Gallagher (4/10): Showed more of the drive and commitment that De Zerbi spoke about wanting to rediscover from him, pressing with purpose and contributing defensively. Still not at the level that made him such a key figure at Chelsea. Replaced by Simons in the 86th minute.
Randal Kolo Muani (5/10): Worked tirelessly and linked play effectively throughout, demonstrating the selfless qualities that have made him one of the more consistent performers in this struggling side. Lacked the decisive final contribution to change the game but his overall effort was commendable.
Lucas Bergvall (6/10): One of the brighter performers before his withdrawal as part of the triple change in the 63rd minute. Showed composure and intelligence in possession, demonstrating exactly why De Zerbi is expected to make him central to his plans going forward.
Richarlison (5/10): Brought energy and desire to the forward line before being replaced by Tel in the 63rd minute. Pressed relentlessly and caused Sunderland problems without ever finding the decisive moment the game required.
Dominic Solanke (5/10): Battled hard and held the ball up reasonably well, but was ultimately unable to make the telling contribution that could have changed the outcome. Deserved better service throughout.
Substitutes
Pape Matar Sarr (4/10): Introduced at 63 minutes but struggled to impose himself meaningfully on proceedings.
Mathys Tel (5/10): Brought energy after coming on and caused some problems with his directness, but had insufficient time to influence the result.
Kevin Danso (5/10): Came on for the injured Romero in the 71st minute and performed solidly enough in difficult circumstances.
Joao Palhinha (5/10): Replaced Gray in the 63rd minute and provided some defensive solidity.
Xavi Simons (N/A): Introduced in the 86th minute with too little time to contribute meaningfully.