Tottenham go into Tottenham vs Crystal Palace with a real chance to build momentum, but the injury list is still the bigger issue. Tottenham sit 14th in the Premier League with 9 points from 8 matches, and a win over Crystal Palace could lift them as high as sixth. The problem is the same one that has hung over much of their season, who is actually available.
Bergvall's absence and Maddison's doubt
Lucas Bergvall has not featured since the 1-1 draw with Manchester United, and Roberto De Zerbi said he expects around two weeks out. De Zerbi also said, "But after Manchester United, I have not worked with him, and it is a problem. We are lucky because in the same position we have solutions."
That is the main tension around this game. Tottenham are trying to turn two straight league wins into something more stable, yet Bergvall is one more player the staff cannot use while Mathys Tel and others have been asked to carry the load.
Tottenham's recent lift
The improvement is real enough in the numbers. Tottenham have run 3.7km per game more in their last three league outings, made 12 extra sprints and won the ball back more often in higher areas. They restricted Chelsea to seven shots and 0.47 xG last weekend, which is a decent sign that the press is starting to bite.
De Zerbi's comments about mentality fit that trend. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said, "I think we have suffered enough." He also added, "The results of the past are not our responsibility. We are working to change the mentality of our club."
The challenge now is keeping that improvement going without letting the absences drag the side back into the mess they have only just started to leave behind.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →
