Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has turned his focus toward unlocking the full potential of Xavi Simons and Conor Gallagher as Spurs gear up for a tense run-in at the back end of the season.
With pressure mounting, the Italian tactician is determined to spark a turnaround from two key midfield assets.
So far, Simons has shown flashes of brilliance on the European stage.
However, he has struggled to replicate that same rhythm in domestic action since his summer arrival.
Meanwhile, Gallagher, who joined in January from Atletico Madrid, is still searching for consistency and influence in the Spurs setup.
Consequently, with Tottenham slipping into the relegation zone following West Ham’s result against Wolves, the urgency has intensified.
Both players are now expected to step up and play decisive roles if Spurs are to steer clear of danger.
Nevertheless, De Zerbi remains confident, outlining a clear tactical and psychological blueprint to reignite their form.
“Two parts. One part, the focus on the ball, on the pitch, to put them in the best position, the favourite position they feel, for sure, and the mental part,” he said.
“I think for Gallagher it’s not so easy because he left Chelsea after I don’t know how many seasons.
“He went to Atletico Madrid, and now in Tottenham, in this moment for Tottenham.
“He was a leader in Chelsea, and now he has to adapt to a new club, to new teammates, to a new stadium, to a new everything.
“I have to help him to put as a target the Gallagher in Chelsea.
“The other players, the position on the pitch, Kudus was one player because he already knew what I demand for the winger.
“And all players, one part mental side and one part on the pitch to give more solution when we have the ball.
“And change the focus from the defensive phase to the offensive phase.
“Because if we have to concede a goal, we concede a goal.
“But the DNA of these players, of this club, of these players, is to keep the ball and to try the condition to score. Not to be worried (about conceding). Because we need to win the game.”
As the season enters its decisive phase, Tottenham must shift gears quickly.
With De Zerbi pushing for a more attack-minded approach and mental sharpness, all eyes will be on Simons and Gallagher to deliver when it matters most.
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