The numbers behind Conor Gallagher’s performance against Aston Villa suggest Roberto De Zerbi may have found an answer to Tottenham Hotspur’s long-standing issue in the number 10 role.
Spurs delivered one of their most convincing displays of the year at Villa Park, rising to the occasion in a high-pressure clash. With West Ham United slipping to defeat against Brentford, Tottenham knew a win would lift them out of the relegation zone—and they made it count.
De Zerbi’s side didn’t just edge past Villa—they controlled the game from start to finish, showing intensity, structure, and belief. After just four matches in charge, the Italian appears to have reshaped both the mindset and identity of the team, giving fans renewed hope in their survival chances.
Gallagher Steals the Show
While the tactical setup deserves praise, several players stood out on the night—none more so than Gallagher. The January signing produced his best display yet in a Spurs shirt, dominating midfield with relentless energy and aggression.
Known for his pressing ability, the former Chelsea man brought exactly that to the game—winning possession, disrupting Villa’s rhythm, and driving Tottenham forward. He capped off his performance with a superb long-range goal, his first for the club, firing low past Emiliano Martínez into the corner.
His overall display was reflected in the stats. Gallagher registered an 8.2 match rating, along with 11 defensive contributions—an impressive figure for a player operating in an advanced midfield role. He also completed 86% of his passes, made multiple recoveries, and contributed across all phases of play.
A Different Kind of Playmaker
Gallagher may not be a traditional creative midfielder like James Maddison or Xavi Simons—players known for splitting defences with intricate passes—but his impact is no less significant.
Against Villa, he didn’t create a big chance or even register a touch inside the opposition box. Yet his influence was undeniable.
His relentless pressing allowed Tottenham to win the ball high up the pitch, reducing the need for elaborate build-up play. By forcing turnovers in dangerous areas, Spurs were able to create opportunities quickly and efficiently—something De Zerbi clearly leaned on in the absence of a natural number 10.
In essence, Gallagher offers a different attacking edge. Instead of unlocking defences with passes, he does it through pressure, energy, and positioning—helping Tottenham sustain attacks and control territory.
If this performance is anything to go by, De Zerbi may have already found a unique and effective solution to reshape Spurs’ attacking approach.
