Tottenham’s relegation battle with West Ham will go into the final day of the season.
The Premier League survival race served another twist on Tuesday night after Tottenham Hotspur lost 2-1 against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Spurs’ failure to get anything from the Chelsea fixture means that the final relegation spot will be decided on the final day of the season on Sunday. Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos set the Blues on their way at home. Richarlison’s goal proved too little too late for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
A win over struggling Chelsea would have been enough to confirm Tottenham’s top-flight status next season, while a draw would have put safety beyond all reasonable doubt. However, the result leaves Spurs 17th in the table and two points clear of their relegation rivals West Ham with one match left to play, at home to Everton on the final day of the season.
Roberto De Zerbi gives verdict on Tottenham’s loss to Chelsea
There has been a clear uptick in performance levels under Roberto De Zerbi, though the North Londoners have been unable to pull away from the drop zone. This is down to the quality and injuries in the squad, costing Tottenham throughout the season.
The Italian tactician gave a surprising verdict on the game. The Spurs gaffer felt his boys played well but must now forget the result at Stamford Bridge and put their entire focus on the final game.
“I think we played a very good game. We lost,” De Zerbi said in an interview with Sky Sports (h/t BBC Sport).
“But now is not the time to think too much of this game. We have to prepare for the next game. We play in our stadium with our fans. With our qualities, with character, with pride and courage, we have to play. But I am positive because today we played a good game.”
All focus shifts to the judgement day vs. Everton
With all due respect to De Zerbi, Tottenham did not play a good game against Chelsea. Several senior players underperformed on the night and made poor decisions in and out of possession. Randal Kolo Muani’s stray pass from the right flank led to Chelsea’s second goal, while the likes of Joao Palhinha, Micky van de Ven and Conor Gallagher struggled to influence the proceedings.
With the game done and dusted now, our players must not lose energy by dwelling on it. With Everton making the trip to North London on the final day, the entire Tottenham squad have to show their mettle and resilience. Despite Everton’s form dipping in recent weeks, they have been excellent away from home this season under David Moyes.
The Toffees have the quality to cause problems for the Lilywhites. Destiny firmly remains in our hands, and the Spurs players have to relish the occasion and put up a show in front of the fans. It is now or never for us!