Tottenham: Roberto De Zerbi considered surprise Luca Williams-Barnett role for rare Chelsea FC win

Evening Standard · Sam Tabuteau · 2026-11-06 15:28 UTC

Spurs youngster is one of the most exciting talents to come out of the club’s academy since Harry Kane

Roberto De Zerbi has revealed he thought about starting teenage sensation Luca Williams-Barnett ahead of Tottenham’s historic victory at Chelsea last month.

Williams-Barnett has been the name on everyone’s lips since his scintillating Premier League debut against Crystal Palace last weekend, nearly grabbing an assist with a superb run and cross for Mohammed Kudus.

The 18-year-old has, however, had to watch as his England contemporaries Rio Mgumoha and Max Dowman have been given ample opportunities to impress, with De Zerbi admitting he had been reluctant to risk him while Spurs struggled for results.

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