De Zerbi warns Spurs: don't get comfortable – this nightmare isn't over yet

Roberto De Zerbi has delivered a pointed reminder to his Tottenham squad: escaping the relegation zone is merely a waypoint, not a destination.

Following Sunday's commanding 2-1 victory over Aston Villa – a result that hoisted Spurs one point clear of West Ham – the manager has made clear his players must not allow relief to breed complacency. With three games remaining, the battle for survival continues.

Spurs made their intentions clear against Villa from the outset, racing into a two-goal lead by the 25th minute. Though Emi Buendia's late strike provided Villa some consolation deep into added time, it proved too little too late. The three points proved crucial, lifting Tottenham out of the drop zone after entering the match two points adrift of safety.

Yet De Zerbi has stressed that one positive result cannot erase the season's painful chapter. Speaking to TNT Sports, the Italian manager refused to celebrate the escape from the bottom three, saying: "Nothing, because the season is not finished yet. We have to play another three games starting on Monday night with Leeds, they are playing very well."

He continued: "We can't forget what the situation was before Wolves. It was a very sad situation and these memories have to stay in our heads."

De Zerbi acknowledged the psychological battle his team has faced, highlighting a single impressive home performance where the atmosphere proved transformative. "Just one time we have played at home and the atmosphere was amazing in the stadium. I think it was a mental problem and these two wins, I hope we can play with more confidence and better mentality," he explained.

On the performance against Villa, De Zerbi had few complaints. He praised his side's defensive resilience and attacking execution, while singling out midfielder Conor Gallagher for special mention. "Gallagher, when he plays well, we play with 12 players. He is an amazing player," De Zerbi said.

He also lauded the contributions of Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel, along with the centre-back pairing. "We played very well for 60 minutes without the ball and with the ball," De Zerbi reflected. "We suffered with Watkins and Buendia and conceded a goal. That was the only bad thing we did on the pitch. I'm pleased with this performance from my players. I know how much they have suffered this season."