Premier League news: Spurs’ nine injuries ‘normal’, says De Zerbi; ‘emotional control’ keeps Blues red-free

Tottenham manager insists medical team not to blame as more key players drop out while Alonso happy with Chelsea’s new-found discipline Roberto De Zerbi has insisted Tottenham’s medical staff bears no responsibility for the numerous selection issues he faces against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday where his club will attempt to win for only the second time in 42 matches in all competitions. The head coach has been boosted by the return of Pedro Porro from injury while he reported that Andy Robertson, Omar Marmoush and Dominic Solanke were “good” in light of fitness concerns. De Zerbi had bad news elsewhere, however, saying Destiny Udogie was still out and Tosin Adarabioyo was a doubt.

James Maddison did not train for three days after the home win over Coventry on Monday and may not be ready, while caution will remain the watchword with Dejan Kulusevski, who played his first minutes since May 2025 against Frank Lampard’s side. De Zerbi could be without nine players due to injury when the longer-term absentees are factored in, including Lucas Bergvall and Savio. Rodrigo Bentancur is suspended. Spurs appointed a new performance director last season in Dan Lewindon and he oversaw a clutch of new hires in the performance department in July. De Zerbi made the point that the club would make a “total