De Zerbi insists he remains confident in Spurs ‘project’ but admits ‘mentality’ challenge

Roberto De Zerbi admits Tottenham’s biggest challenge is finding the “right mentality” after they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle.

Spurs were beaten at St James’ Park as goals from Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa secured all three points for the visitors.

De Zerbi has overseen significant changes to his squad since taking charge, but the Italian insists mentality cannot simply be fixed by signing more players in the transfer market.

“The biggest problem, the biggest challenge, the biggest target is to find the right mentality,” De Zerbi said.

“Unfortunately, you can’t buy the mentality in the transfer market or put many players inside.

“Football is like a magic thing. You can change many players in one transfer window and you can find the balance immediately, or you need more time.

“I would like to achieve this target quickly, as soon as possible, because it’s crucial to play football.”

De Zerbi believes Tottenham’s wider project of rebuilding the squad remains on the right track despite consecutive Premier League defeats.

“The plan, the project of the club, what we are doing to rebuild a new team with new players, is a great plan, is a great project,” he added.

“I have no doubt about the result of this project.

“We have to accept [the defeat] and be stronger to move on after this defeat.”