Xavi Simons
Xavi Simons was left disappointed after Brighton equalised in the final moments of stoppage time, denying Tottenham Hotspur their first Premier League victory of the year. The 22-year-old midfielder had initially put Spurs ahead with a stunning goal, curling the ball into the top corner past Brighton’s goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen. However, a late mistake by Kevin Danso allowed the Seagulls to snatch a point, leaving Simons and his teammates to rue a missed opportunity. With West Ham set to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, the Lilywhites risk falling further behind in the league standings.
Xavi Simons said: “The goal in the last minute hurts. I think the fans were fantastic, and we have to keep working through this. You could see the atmosphere that was in the stadium from the first minute, and we as players feel that as well. What I can say is we are really working hard to go through this situation. I have been through a difficult journey, I would say this season, but it is life, and I am still young, and I have to learn things.”
Simons expressed his gratitude towards the fans and his determination to help the team overcome their current challenges. The Dutch international, who made his first start under manager Roberto De Zerbi, emphasised his commitment to improving his performance and contributing to the team’s success.
Xavi Simons added: “I am really happy the coach is here and for me especially. I want to play football, I want to score and assist, and I want to help the team to go through this situation together. These are the kind of games I want to be on the pitch and show everyone I can help the team. I am just putting the work in morning, afternoon and night.”
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi praised Simons’ performance and highlighted the player’s potential for growth with the right support.
The Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi said: “He played very well, a great game. I think he can play better and better, because a player like this, he needs to feel confidence from the manager, and I stay here to transfer all the confidence he needs, because I was a player, I was number 10, and I think I know what he thinks, because I thought the same when I was a player. They played a good game, I think we can play better than today with much more quality and more calm, especially when we are in possession, but in this moment we need this spirit, this attitude and this mentality. It is not finished yet. We have another five games. It is tough. Every one of us knows it is a tough moment, a difficult situation, but we have another five games and 15 points. This team is able to win five games in a row. Now, it is difficult to hear my words, but if you watch the players and analyse the level of the players, I think we can win five games in a row.”
Despite the setback, De Zerbi remains optimistic about Tottenham’s ability to turn their season around. With five games remaining, the manager believes that his team can secure crucial victories and climb the Premier League table. As the season progresses, both Simons and De Zerbi are focused on maintaining a positive attitude and working towards achieving their goals.