Ahead of the Premier League clash against Chelsea, Roberto De Zerbi has now opened up on who he is likely to rely on between the sticks in Chelsea vs Tottenham, Guglielmo Vicario or Antonin Kinsky.
Many Tottenham Hotspur fans were full of praise for Antonin Kinsky after his heroics in Spurs’ last Premier League game against Leeds United.
The Czech international was pivotal for Tottenham in that match, making two big stops that prevented Spurs from losing against Daniel Farke’s side.
In hindsight, many Tottenham supporters will have been kicking themselves for only walking away with a single point, but that draw against Leeds now means that Spurs could secure their league status with another point against Chelsea on Tuesday.
Roberto De Zerbi answers Guglielmo Vicario or Antonin Kinsky question at Tottenham
It is no secret that Kinsky is not the number one choice at Tottenham. The young goalkeeper has only been called into action because of Guglielmo Vicario’s hernia surgery, which has kept him sidelined since the last international break.
Spurs Web has since relayed the latest injury update from De Zerbi ahead of the Chelsea clash. The Spurs boss has confirmed that Vicario is fit and has returned to first-team action.
Speaking to football.london, De Zerbi has now opened up on which one of his goalkeepers he will be using between the sticks against Chelsea.
He was asked directly about the decision and responded by making his stance clear while also stressing the importance of form, fitness and relationships within the squad.
He said: “No, it is not difficult. It is easy. Vicario is number one but we have to consider the physical condition, the momentum and everything. I have a big relationship with Kinsky and Vicario as well and there will be no problem.”
De Zerbi must consider tactical nuance when making goalkeeping decision
It is no surprise to see De Zerbi keeping his selection choices close to his chest, given how pivotal Tuesday’s game is for Tottenham Hotspur.
The goalkeeper between the sticks could well determine how Spurs approach the game. Should the Italian opt for Kinsky, as he has done previously, Tottenham can look to build from the back with greater confidence, given how comfortable Kinsky is with the ball at his feet.
Vicario, on the other hand, is not as assured in that aspect of the game as has been evident for much of the season. The Italian has struggled at times in build-up phases, and should he start from the off, that could invite unnecessary pressure onto Spurs.
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