De Zerbi Backs Tottenham to Find Goals After Cup Exit

Frustration at Anfield

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi remains optimistic despite his side bowing out of the Carabao Cup. Spurs suffered a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool on Tuesday, leaving the team still searching for their form.

Four games into the new Premier League season, Tottenham are yet to score a league goal. In fact, Conor Gallagher's second half header at Anfield was the first goal Spurs have scored against top flight opposition this season.

Despite the loss, the statistics showed a promising performance. Tottenham beat Liverpool on expected goals by 2.34 to 1.53. They also had 56 percent possession compared to Liverpool's 44 percent, and took 17 shots to Liverpool's 12. Spurs put six shots on target, while Liverpool managed five.

Looking for the Click

De Zerbi believes his new team is starting to come together. He pointed out that Tottenham created several clear chances during the cup match. He mentioned opportunities for Lucas Bergvall, Kudus, and Udogie, as well as second half chances for Marmoush and Sávio.

"We have to be stronger," De Zerbi said. "I think last season was a school. I think it has to be a school for everyone. Now we are unlucky, because it's clear we have to improve many, many things, but also this night we played well."

The manager admitted his squad is hurting from the poor results, but he believes a turnaround is coming soon. He stated that when they finally click, they are going to win many games and score many goals.

What it means for the next game

Spurs now turn their attention back to the Premier League. They host also winless Aston Villa in north London on Saturday. De Zerbi has urged his players to shoot more and improve their finishing in the final third.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa (Premier League, Sat, 19 Sep): Tottenham Hotspur win 42%, draw 27%, Aston Villa win 30%; expected goals 1.46 to 1.20. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.