Tottenham boss Roberto de Zerbi has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against Brighton at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (kick-off 17:30 BST).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
- De Zerbi confirmed that Argentina centre-back Cristian Romero is out for season and said: "I am really sorry for him, for his injury. Romero, first of all, loves Tottenham, and the people have to know his suffering."
- Goakeeper Guglielmo Vicario remains out: "I am looking forward to working with him. He is another important player for us with big experience and a big personality. We are waiting for him."
- Uruguay midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur is available to play, although De Zerbi does not know if he will start, while Yves Bissouma is "100%" ready to play.
- The Spurs boss said he does not want to "push" England forward James Maddison, who has not played since suffering a torn ACL in pre-season
- On Maddison's return: "It's better to lose [Maddison] for one game more than to take a risk for another injury."
- On taking the team out for a meal: "I don't know if we win the game for [this] dinner, but we ate very well. The food was amazing and if we win I am ready to pay every week one dinner."
- On facing former club Brighton: "I love Brighton, I love my former players and all people working in this club. Fabian [Hurzeler] is working very well and is credit for what they are doing."
- De Zerbi said he has not decided who will captain the side in Romero's absence, but added: "I would like all players to feel they could be a captain. We can't cry, we have to push and be stronger to come out of this situation."
Listen to full commentary of Saturday’s match via BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.
Follow all of Friday’s Premier League news conferences and the rest of the day’s football news.
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