De Zerbi Believes Tottenham Have Tackled Mental Weakness to Strengthen Relegation Battle Post Villa Triumph

Tottenham under De Zerbi surged ahead with two goals in the opening half, courtesy of Conor Gallaghers stunning long distance strike and Richarlisons powerful header.

Emiliano Buendia pulled one back for Villa right at the end, yet it proved insufficient to halt Tottenhams run of back to back successes.

Sitting fourth from the drop zone, Tottenham now hold a one point edge over third from bottom West Ham, both sides with three fixtures remaining in their bid to stay up.

Upon De Zerbis arrival in March succeeding the dismissed temporary manager Igor Tudor, Tottenham endured a 15 match winless streak in the league stretching back to December.

Following defeats at Sunderland and a stalemate against Brighton, De Zerbi has sparked crucial triumphs on the road versus Wolves and Villa, reigniting Tottenhams chances of dodging a return to the second division for the first time since 1977-78.

The Italian manager attributed it to restoring his squads battered self belief amid the chaotic campaign.

I believe it stemmed from a mental issue and these pair of victories, hopefully will allow us to compete with greater assurance and improved mindset, he commented.

Villa possess a strong squad with numerous talented individuals and an excellent coach, yet we controlled proceedings effectively for 60 minutes both out of possession and in it.

I am delighted by my teams showing. I understand the extent of their struggles this term.

The intense pressure tests mindset and during build up we executed superbly in exploiting gaps or taking shots. My role is to support them and highlight their potential.

Gallaghers initial strike since his January switch from Atletico Madrid stood out in his relentless performance from the England international, symbolising Tottenhams determination.

When Gallagher excels, it feels like we have an extra man on the pitch. He is exceptional. Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel delivered outstanding efforts. Our central defenders shone both defensively and on the ball, I am truly satisfied, De Zerbi added.

Tottenham welcome Leeds at home next, followed by a trip to Chelsea prior to wrapping up with Everton at home.

West Ham face top of the table Arsenal in their upcoming clash, but De Zerbi remains cautious in this tense survival scrap.

The campaign is far from over. Three more matches await, kicking off Monday evening against Leeds who are in fine form, he noted.

We must recall the dire state prior to the Wolves game. That despair lingers and should remain fresh in our minds.