Tottenham Hotspur’s relegation battle remains finely poised heading into the final two games of the season, and Richarlison has now opened up on what Spurs must do to secure survival depending on results elsewhere.
Tottenham Hotspur cannot really afford to drop many more points with how tight it is at the bottom of the Premier League table.
As it stands, two points is currently the difference between safety and relegation, with Tottenham only narrowly on the right side of the dotted line.
However, it could well have been more comfortable for Spurs had they managed victory over Leeds United in their last Premier League outing on Monday.
West Ham United had dropped points against Arsenal, and a win over Leeds could have seen Spurs open up a significant four-point gap between themselves and the Hammers.
Richarlison sends a message on Tottenham’s survival battle
But there is still plenty to play for following the latest run of results, with two games left before the season comes to a close.
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Tottenham face Chelsea away next before a home clash against Everton. If Spurs can manage four points from those two games, their safety will almost certainly be guaranteed.
Speaking to ESPN about Tottenham’s relegation fight and what Spurs need to do over the final weeks of the campaign, Richarlison admitted the situation is difficult but insisted the side is continuing to move forward.
“It’s difficult, but point by point we’re moving forward,” he said. “Depending on the result of next weekend’s game, with one more point we can avoid relegation, but we need to do our part. Away from home we’ve managed to pick up points well. Now we have to stay calm.”
The Brazilian forward also reflected on Tottenham’s latest display against Leeds United, where Spurs were forced to settle for a draw after conceding from the penalty spot.
“We played a very intense game today. Unfortunately we conceded.”
Richarlison discusses Brazil World Cup hopes amid Spurs struggles
Spurs Web has also reported on Gabby Agbonlahor’s criticism of Richarlison, with the former Premier League striker questioning the Tottenham forward’s performance against Leeds.
There is no denying that Richarlison must improve if he is to help Spurs avoid relegation from the Premier League this season.
At the same time, stronger performances could also boost his hopes of making Brazil’s World Cup squad. Discussing the situation with ESPN, Richarlison admitted the uncertainty surrounding his international future is weighing heavily on his mind.
“Anxious, right? I think I gave up a lot for that shirt,” the Tottenham player said while discussing Brazil. “I’m doing my work here at Tottenham, I’m playing, I’m scoring my goals. I think I’ll be watching with expectation on TV.”
Despite the uncertainty, the striker insisted he still believes he can force his way into the squad.
“I’m confident. I believe I can be there. And if I am, I’ll do my best for the national team shirt, like I always have.”
The Brazilian also stressed that he will continue supporting the national side regardless of whether he is selected.
“Regardless of whether I’m there or not, I have brothers and teammates there. I’m very patriotic. I’ll always support Brazil.”