Despite struggling for consistency over the past few weeks, Sunderland are just six points off a European spot, and a top-half finish is certainly within grasp.
Regis Le Bris’ men may have been off the pace in the first half against Newcastle United, but they turned things around to secure a dramatic 2-1 win thanks to a late strike from Brian Brobbey.
The Black Cats edged the number of attempts and had a higher xG (expected goals rate) across the 90 minutes, and that was despite seeing less of the ball and completing fewer passes.
Sunderland like to keep things tight, and they will be looking to expose Tottenham in wide and central areas this weekend.
After the doom and gloom that surrounded Tudor’s ill-fated 44-day spell in charge, perhaps De Zerbi can change the mood music at Tottenham.
Still searching for their first league win this calendar year, Tottenham are hovering just a point above the relegation zone in 17th, and there have been some meek displays.
The 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Nottingham Forest illustrated this where Tottenham looked vulnerable from set-pieces, and they lacked genuine attacking guile.
Perhaps there will be a new managerial bounce, but they need to start games more quickly