After a disastrous performance against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, Tottenham goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky has made crucial saves to help Spurs in their fight to remain in the Premier League. The 23-year-old Czech goalkeeper has begun to rebuild his reputation under manager Roberto De Zerbi, whose positive attitude has been instrumental in the team's recent resurgence.
Kinsky's Comeback
Following a poor showing against Atlético Madrid on March 10, many assumed Kinsky would not play again for Tottenham this season. However, with first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario sidelined due to hernia surgery, De Zerbi has trusted Kinsky in four consecutive matches. The goalkeeper has repaid that faith with assured performances, highlighted by a diving save to deny Joao Gomes' stoppage-time free-kick in a 1-0 win over Wolves.
De Zerbi praised Kinsky's character, saying: "What he felt after Madrid, for sure, was a big, big motivation for him. If you have pride, if you have dignity, if you have the right spirit, if you have character … he has all these values."
Home Form Woes
While Kinsky has exorcised his demons, Tottenham face a similar challenge in their Premier League survival bid. The team has struggled at home, with the joint-worst home record in the division before this match week, including only two wins. In contrast, Spurs had the third-best away record. De Zerbi remains cautious, acknowledging that a single slip from Kinsky could shift the narrative again.
De Zerbi dismissed concerns about the stadium atmosphere, saying: "Tottenham's stadium is hot. When I was here with Brighton and last month against Brighton, the stadium was very, very hot. We are lucky to play in this stadium."
Injury Updates
Vicario has not yet returned to full training, and De Zerbi could not confirm whether the goalkeeper will stay at Spurs amid interest from Inter Milan. Meanwhile, Dejan Kulusevski, who has missed the entire season with a knee injury, is working abroad to recover. De Zerbi suggested the midfielder may only be available for the final game against Everton for morale purposes, casting doubt on his World Cup hopes with Sweden.
De Zerbi emphasized his focus on the present: "If you ask me if I have any ideas about next season, my answer is no. After two wins, if I lose time thinking about next season's squad, I am being arrogant."
