Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi addressed the media on Monday as his side prepared for their Carabao Cup third-round encounter with Liverpool at Anfield.
The Italian head coach fielded questions on a range of topics including squad fitness, player availability, and tactical matters ahead of the competition’s next stage.
Spurs head to Merseyside having found goals hard to come by in recent Premier League fixtures.
Both clubs involved in Wednesday’s cup tie played out goalless draws in their respective league matches on Saturday, with Tottenham held by Everton and Liverpool failing to find a breakthrough against Fulham.
The lack of attacking output from De Zerbi’s side has prompted discussion about their finishing ability, while the opposition will present a stern test in the knockout competition.
The former Shakhtar Donetsk and Brighton manager provided updates on several players ahead of the cup fixture.
Pedro Porro remains unavailable due to injury, with the Spanish full-back continuing his recovery programme.
Destiny Udogie was confirmed as available after missing the recent draw with Everton.
The fitness situations of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski were also addressed during the session.
Questions arose regarding Richarlison, with the Brazilian forward eligible to feature in the cup competition despite his omission from the Premier League squad.
The forward has not been included in the league roster but can participate in cup matches under competition rules.
When discussing the squad, De Zerbi highlighted the quality available to him while acknowledging areas requiring improvement.
The head coach noted that his team has created opportunities without converting them in recent matches, though defensive solidity has remained strong.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining intensity throughout full matches rather than just in opening periods.
Regarding specific players, the manager discussed adaptation processes for new signings joining from other clubs, noting that players joining mid-season face different circumstances compared to their previous clubs.
The responsibility levels and tactical demands can differ significantly, requiring adjustment periods.
Individual development work was mentioned, with the coaching staff preparing detailed footage for players to study following training sessions.
The focus remains on improving final-third play and ensuring the team maintains the quality shown in strong opening performances throughout entire matches.
Several midfield and attacking options were discussed as possible solutions to recent creative struggles, with the manager emphasising the need for players to attack dangerous areas more consistently rather than remaining in deeper positions.
Full-back Robertson was cited as an example of someone who delivers frequent quality deliveries from wide areas.
The squad depth was praised, particularly in defensive areas where multiple internationals compete for starting positions.
De Zerbi expressed satisfaction with the competition for places across various positions, suggesting the overall quality throughout the squad remains high.
When questioned about recent circumstances involving squad members, the manager clarified that internal matters remain between the individual players and the club itself, declining to elaborate further on specific situations.