Tottenham back De Zerbi and rule out Van de Ven sale

Vinai Venkatesham backed Roberto De Zerbi despite Spurs taking two points from five games and sitting bottom, saying summer changes need time and results must earn belief.
Tottenham are not set to prioritise a new centre-back in January despite links with Kim Min-jae, with De Zerbi satisfied by Micky van de Ven, Jan-Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi and Tosin.
Tottenham's Andy Robertson starred on his 100th Scotland appearance as they beat North Macedonia 2-0. He was hailed as 'a man possessed' after an energetic display in Skopje.
Tottenham are monitoring Brentford right-back Michael Kayode, but Liverpool lead the interest. Brentford want at least €60m-€65m for the Italy international and are not planning a mid-season sale.
Tottenham retain interest in Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis, who wants a Premier League move, after scouting him and with his future open if Benfica soften their stance.
Tottenham will not entertain selling captain Micky van de Ven, despite Liverpool interest, with the Dutch defender tied to Spurs until 2031 after signing a new deal in August.
Sandro Tonali's agent said Tottenham's recovery and De Zerbi's pitch that Spurs needed him as a leader helped secure his reported £100m move despite interest from Manchester City.
Tottenham are monitoring Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi, but Barcelona are keen too. The 20-year-old scored 13 Premier League goals last season and could cost €90m-€100m.
Former Spurs striker Troy Parrott scored twice for the Republic of Ireland in a 2-2 draw with Austria, as the piece argues he is outshining Dominic Solanke for goals and all-round play.
Tottenham have reportedly opened the door to Destiny Udogie leaving, with Juventus interested. Spurs could accept about £12.8m after injuries limited him to one league start this season.
Tottenham are among clubs monitoring Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Brighton are also tracking the 20-year-old, while Benfica want a new long-term contract agreed.