Roberto De Zerbi has explained his decision to switch Tottenham to a back three for their win over Coventry City, revealing injuries and fitness concerns in midfield influenced the change.
The Spurs boss opted for a different shape in the 3-1 victory partly due to a lack of availability in midfield.
“We played three at the back because of injured players in the midfield positions,” De Zerbi said.
“Conor Gallagher came back two days ago and at the beginning of the week the medical staff told me maybe he could be not available to play.
“Bergvall was an injury.”
De Zerbi also revealed Mateus Fernandes had only been able to train for two days because of his son being born.
“Mateus Fernandes worked just the last two days because of his son,” he said.
“I thought three at the back was the best solution to defend the counter-attack and have more control of the game.”