Tottenham Hotspur head into a crucial clash with Sunderland, and the latest injury news could at least level the playing field for Roberto De Zerbi.

It is not long before Tottenham Hotspur take to the field in their first game under new coach Roberto De Zerbi.

The former Brighton manager will be hoping he can steady a sinking ship as Spurs battle to stay in the English top flight.

His first encounter is set to come up against an impressive Sunderland side, who have looked very much like a Premier League side despite securing promotion last season.

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

When the two sides last met under Thomas Frank, the encounter ended in a draw. However, with the gap between Tottenham and the relegation places standing at just one point, securing a victory is crucial for De Zerbi.

Tottenham might now have a slight boost ahead of their encounter with the Black Cats on Sunday, 12 April. That is because goalkeeper Robin Roefs and key centre-back Daniel Ballard are doubts for Sunday’s encounter.

A return date has been pencilled in for 12 April on Premier League Injuries, but there is a 50% chance that the pair will be back.

Other sidelined players for the newly promoted...