Chris Waddle has become the latest pundit to throw his support behind Roberto De Zerbi, backing him to stabilise Tottenham Hotspur as they fight to secure their place in the Premier League.
De Zerbi faces a major challenge in his new role, with just seven games left in the season and Spurs battling to avoid slipping further down the table.
His first test comes against newly promoted Sunderland AFC, a side Tottenham previously drew with earlier in the campaign under former boss Thomas Frank.
This time, however, Spurs cannot afford another setback, with the possibility of dropping into the relegation zone depending on other results involving West Ham United.
Waddle backs De Zerbi to steady Spurs
Opinion remains divided on whether De Zerbi is the right appointment at this stage of the season. Some pundits, including Jay Bothroyd, believe he is the ideal fit and could even guide Spurs towards European qualification next season.
Others, such as William Gallas, have questioned the decision, suggesting a more experienced Premier League figure like Harry Redknapp would have been a better short-term option.
Waddle, however, is firmly in De Zerbi’s corner. Speaking to Fruity King, he expressed confidence that the Italian can not only stabilise Spurs but also restore belief within the squad.
He said De Zerbi’s experience, tactical understanding, and ability to adapt make him well-suited to the challenge, even highlighting his difficult spell at Olympique de Marseille as evidence of his resilience.
Waddle added that the immediate priority is simple: survival. According to him, Spurs must rediscover confidence, become harder to beat, and accept that draws may be valuable in their current situation.
Survival fight intensifies
While debate continues around De Zerbi’s appointment, Spurs are fully focused on the battle ahead. With multiple clubs still involved in the relegation fight — including Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and West Ham — every fixture is now crucial.
A win over Sunderland, combined with favourable results elsewhere, could lift Tottenham into a more comfortable position in the table and provide a much-needed boost heading into the final stretch of the season.
For now, De Zerbi’s mission is clear: steady the ship, restore confidence, and keep Spurs in the Premier League.