Chris Hughton backs Roberto De Zerbi to lead Tottenham revival

Chris Hughton believes Roberto De Zerbi has the quality of manager and squad required to reverse Tottenham’s difficult start to the season, insisting it is too soon to judge the head coach after only five league games.

Hughton, a former Tottenham player and coach, was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame on Monday. He said De Zerbi was best placed to understand the challenges facing the team and remains confident results will improve.

“He’ll be feeling it more than anybody and he’ll be working with the team more than anybody,” Hughton told Sky Sports.

“But he is a top manager. I think what he also has is a good group of players. If I look at the purchases this summer, the club have brought in good players.

“When you have a combination of a very good coach who wants to work with these players and good players, then it gives you more confidence that things will improve.”

Tottenham made a number of changes to their squad during the transfer window, and Hughton said the team may need time to develop an understanding after those arrivals.

“Sometimes things can go well from the start when you’re bringing in a lot of players at the same time. Sometimes it takes time,” he said.

“It’s obviously going to take that little bit of time. We have to accept and remember that we are five games into a season.”

Hughton acknowledged the scrutiny that accompanies the Tottenham job but said criticism was part of being a head coach and that De Zerbi could answer it by delivering better results.

“If there is criticism, then it’s something that you have to accept as a coach,” he said. “I have absolute confidence that he will turn that around.

“I’m very, very confident that there will be a turnaround. Of course, everybody wants it sooner rather than later, and sometimes that’s not the case. But ultimately, I think we will be seeing a winning football team here.”

Former Tottenham captain Ledley King, who was also inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame, said he had seen progress in the team’s recent displays.

“I’ve seen improvements over the last three games especially, so there are signs that it is coming together,” King said.

The former defender added that one positive result could have a swift effect on the team’s confidence and the wider mood around the club.

“Everyone knows that confidence plays a huge part in football. These are top-quality players and it’s just about finding a positive result. Things can change very quickly,” he added.

“It’s always about continuing to work hard on the training pitch, keeping that belief, keeping the spirit of the team good, and I’m sure things will turn around.”

Tottenham’s next fixture is against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday, October 10.