Sutton's predictions: Tottenham v Brighton

TL;DR

Tottenham is still seeking its first Premier League win of 2026 after 14 games. Manager Roberto de Zerbi emphasizes the need for player confidence as Spurs face Brighton in a crucial match.

Key points

Tottenham has not won a Premier League match in 2026.
Roberto de Zerbi emphasizes building player confidence.
Spurs need at least two wins from their last six games to avoid relegation.

Mentioned in this story

Roberto de Zerbi

TottenhamBrighton

Chris Sutton smiling on a yellow and black background with 'Sutton's predictions' written below his face

[BBC]

After Spurs lost to Sunderland in his first match in charge, Roberto de Zerbi said his players need a father figure, not a coach. He is trying to build their confidence but maybe that means he is not coaching them the way he wants to.

It's a bit of a head-scratcher, but then Tottenham's entire season has not made much sense. When you look at their team and their bench, they have got some incredible players.

Somehow, though, Spurs are still waiting for their first Premier League win of the year after playing 14 league games already in 2026. Looking at the table, they will need three wins, or at least two, from their final six games if they are going to climb out of the relegation zone and stay up.

They really should not be in this position but I am not sure they have got the stomach to get out of it now they are.

I just don't think they will get one of those wins against Brighton, who have come into a bit of form.

The Seagulls are on a run of three successive victories and have five wins in their past six games. I can see things going wrong for De Zerbi against his old club, so I am backing Brighton to nick the points here.

Sutton's prediction: 0-1

Read the full predictions and have your say here

Q&A

Why hasn't Tottenham won a Premier League match in 2026?

Tottenham has struggled to secure a win despite having talented players, leaving them in a challenging position in the league.

What does Roberto de Zerbi mean by needing a father figure for his players?

De Zerbi suggests that his players require emotional support and confidence-building rather than traditional coaching methods.

How many wins does Tottenham need to avoid relegation?

Tottenham needs at least two wins from their final six games to have a chance of climbing out of the relegation zone.