Tottenham's survival hopes take another dent

Roberto De Zerbi’s reign as Spurs manager has gotten off to the worst possible start following a 1-0 loss away at Sunderland.

West Ham’s thumping 4-0 win against Wolves on Friday night had already dragged Tottenham into the relegation zone. With just six games left to play, they remain two points behind the Hammers following Sunday’s dismal display.

De Zerbi made five changes heading into the fixture, including a start for Antonin Kinsky in goal. The Czech goalkeeper had not featured since his shambolic performance against Atletico Madrid.

It was a truly scrappy affair in which Spurs lacked any real quality. It eventually took a 20-yard effort from Nordi Mukiele, which deflected off Micky van de Ven and past Kinsky, to break the deadlock. With Sunderland taking the lead just after the hour mark, Tottenham continued to struggle, showing no signs of quality and, in truth, very little fight.

It has now been 14 Premier League games without a win for Tottenham, who are yet to pick up three points in the league this calendar year.

Adding to their woes was an injury to captain Cristian Romero, who left the pitch in tears following a nasty-looking collision with Kinsky (who required heavy bandaging around his head following the clash). It remains to be seen how severe the Argentine’s injury is and how many games he is likely to miss.

Speaking to Sky Sports, De Zerbi said: > “I think we played a good game, but not enough to win. We didn't deserve to lose, but we have to accept it and move on. We are suffering in this moment. We have to be stronger because we have the quality to come out of this difficult period.”

Up next for Tottenham is a high-stakes clash against the Italian coach’s former side, Brighton, on Saturday night.

Meanwhile, for Sunderland, it has been a sensational return to the top flight; they sit only nine points off the top four as things stand. The Black Cats travel to Aston Villa on Sunday for what promises to be an intriguing encounter.