Roberto De Zerbi’s post-match press conference following Tottenham’s survival on the final day was as entertaining as, if not far more than, anything seen on the pitch this season for the North London club, with the Italian coach producing a moment that perfectly encapsulates his personality and the relief of keeping the club in the top flight.
De Zerbi sees funny side as Spurs finish in 17th
With a broad smile upon entering the room, the coach called out a journalist who had been a regular negative presence at the training ground throughout his tenure.
“Where is he? Where is he? That negative journalist who was always at the training centre?” he said. “Go and get him.”
Times journalist Tom Allnutt was in the mixed zone at the time but the coach requested he be brought before him.
The reporter was duly brought to the room, up to the stage, at which point De Zerbi greeted him with a smile and a warm handshake.