“Crazy” — Alasdair Gold left baffled as Tottenham players ignore De Zerbi’s instructions
Tottenham let a big opportunity slip on Sunday afternoon—not just in the 1-0 defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, which dragged them further into the Premier League relegation battle, but also in how they failed to utilise one of their standout performers in an otherwise poor campaign.
Spurs were unfortunate to lose, with Nordi Mukiele’s deflected effort proving decisive. The match marked Roberto De Zerbi’s first game in charge following his appointment during the international break, replacing interim boss Igor Tudor on a permanent basis.
Despite showing some attacking promise in the first half, Tottenham’s defensive frailties remained evident. After Sunderland took the lead, the second half fizzled out, particularly following De Zerbi’s changes in midfield.
Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray were withdrawn shortly after the goal, with Pape Matar Sarr and João Palhinha introduced, but the substitutions seemed to kill any attacking momentum.
Gray’s role throughout the game—not just his substitution—raised eyebrows. The England U21 midfielder appeared to operate as a lone pivot in front of the back four, with Bergvall and Conor Gallagher ahead, supporting a front line of Randal Kolo Muani, Richarlison, and Dominic Solanke.
However, despite often being available, Gray was rarely used effectively. He registered just 23 touches, a surprising stat given his importance to Spurs this season.
Even more puzzling was the contrast with the pre-match warm-up, which suggested he would play a central role under De Zerbi.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, football.london journalist Alasdair Gold described the situation as “crazy.”
He explained that Gray, known for his intelligence, technique, and ability to distribute the ball, was not used in any meaningful or progressive way during the match. Gold noted that during the warm-up, Gray was positioned as the focal point in a rondo drill, acting as the main outlet for passes—seemingly a clear indication that he would be key to Tottenham’s in-game build-up.
Yet once the match began, that approach was abandoned. Instead of involving him, players frequently bypassed Gray, often playing long balls over him rather than building through him.
Gold found the contrast baffling, questioning why a player set up to be the team’s central hub before kick-off was almost completely ignored during the game itself.
