The mantra of being ‘Spursy’ has long been a source of irritation for Tottenham Hotspur fans – largely because it originates in a reality the club has been trying to shake.
Relinquishing leads, wilting under pressure and a lack of collective belief has led to Spurs spending years trying to escape the label.
Changing that reputation will take more than a new manager, a few impressive performances or promises of a brighter future.
It requires a change in mentality — and there are hopes Roberto De Zerbi, alongside the grit of players such as Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison, could help Spurs begin that process.
De Zerbi has a clearly defined footballing philosophy, built around bravery in possession, intelligent movement and the willingness to take risks.
His teams are expected to play with conviction rather than simply react to their opponents. It’s also painstakingly evident how much of passionate character he is and how unrelenting he is in relation to his methods.
If De Zerbi can forge a sense of togetherness and belief in the current, supremely gifted playing squad, Tottenham are capable of creating a special time akin to the years under Mauricio Pochettino.
However, the difference between a talented team and a successful one is often what happens when everything is going against it.
Grit must become part of Tottenham’s identity
Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison’s importance to Tottenham cannot be understated and the duo offer an example of the character Tottenham need. Both bring personality and competitive edge, and neither is short of confidence when it comes to demanding the ball and trying to influence a game.
Kulusevski’s directness and willingness to drive forward can give Spurs momentum when matches become scrappy.
Maddison, meanwhile, has the technical quality and self-belief to take responsibility in possession rather than hide when the stakes rise.
The midfield pair have also both returned from potential career-ending injuries and played a role in Spurs’ 3-1 win over Coventry on Monday night.
Neither player can solve Tottenham’s mentality problem alone; that responsibility must be shared across the dressing room.
But a team needs leaders who set standards in training, demand more from their teammates and refuse to accept a drop in intensity when a match becomes uncomfortable.
That is where De Zerbi’s influence could prove important. A clear tactical identity can create confidence, while consistent expectations around work rate, concentration and accountability can help build trust between players.
Team spirit is not simply about celebrating together after a win. It is about tracking back for a teammate, responding positively after conceding and remaining united when the crowd grows anxious.
Stamford Bridge the ultimate test
Tottenham have not had an unhappier away day destination in the Premier League era than Stamford Bridge.
Spurs have only beaten Chelsea once there, in 2018, since the 1990s and face their London rivals this weekend.
There have been embarrassing defeats, capitulations and the infamous Battle of the Bridge over recent years.
With Tottenham recording their first win of the season against Coventry last time out, De Zerbi’s men will need to show huge character and collective resolve to get a result on Saturday.
The returns of Maddison and Kulusevski increase the quality of the Spurs team but also shows the individual resilience of the players in question.
The Spursy label will not disappear because of one good performance or result – but a spirited, competitive showing at Stamford Bridge would at least be the first step and show the fans the club is heading in the right direction.