Tottenham Hotspur were left to rue a missed opportunity to open up a four-point gap over West Ham United after their disappointing midweek showing against Leeds United.
That frustration, however, was quickly eased on Sunday when West Ham suffered a heavy 3-1 loss at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park.
The result has handed Spurs a significant advantage ahead of their crucial visit to Stamford Bridge, with belief reportedly building inside the camp that Premier League survival is now well within their grasp.
It appears the Tottenham squad were watching events in the North East closely, and midfielder Yves Bissouma gave fans plenty to discuss shortly after the final whistle when he posted a cryptic Instagram story featuring a white heart emoji, crossed fingers, and praying hands — widely interpreted by supporters as a response to West Ham’s defeat and Spurs’ improved survival outlook.
With Tottenham now holding a commanding lead over the Hammers, Bissouma and his teammates are aware that even a single point at Chelsea could go a long way toward mathematically confirming their top-flight status, thanks largely to their vastly superior goal difference.
Spurs currently hold a 13-goal advantage over West Ham, putting them firmly in the driving seat as the season approaches its conclusion.
Even so, supporters will be eager for the job to be wrapped up at the earliest opportunity rather than leaving the tension to spill over into the final-day clash with Everton.
The concern among fans is that, if survival remains unresolved by then, nerves could become a significant factor.
On a more encouraging note, De Zerbi’s side head to West London in decent away form, having won their last two matches on the road. If they can replicate the intensity and organisation shown in those performances, there is a growing sense of optimism around the club that they can finally secure the result needed to complete their survival mission.
