Roberto De Zerbi has revealed he shares a "special connection" with Tottenham playmaker Xavi Simons after the Netherlands international's match-winning display in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Brighton. Simons created the opening goal for Pedro Porro before capping a brilliant individual performance with a stunning strike in the 77th minute, only for Brighton substitute Georginio Rutter to equalise in stoppage time.

De Zerbi, who operated in a similar No. 10 position during his playing career, believes he is uniquely placed to get the best out of the 22-year-old. "He's lucky to work with me -- not because I'm good, because I was No. 10," De Zerbi told SpursPlay. "What he thinks now, I thought 20 years ago. So, we have a special connection." The Italian has picked up just one point from a possible six since replacing Igor Tudor.

Tottenham remain a point from safety and could fall four points behind 17th-placed West Ham depending on Monday's results. Simons has contributed two goals and five assists in 27 Premier League appearances this term following his £52 million arrival from RB Leipzig last summer. Spurs return to action at bottom club Wolves on Saturday, still seeking a first league win of 2026.