Rodrigo Bentancur sent off as De Zerbi hails Spurs’ “character” in 1-1 vs Man United

Tottenham head coach Roberto de Zerbi praised the “character” behind their comeback in a 1-1 at Old Trafford: Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for headbutting Luke Shaw at the 78-minute mark, with Spurs trailing 1-0.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Tottenham rescued a point as Dominic Solanke headed in the equaliser in the second minute of added time. “I kiss Rodrigo and say thanks,” De Zerbi said after the match, adding that with 10 players they showed “more courage” and “more energy”. He called the incident a “mistake” but insisted the reaction was exactly what Tottenham needed to finish the game.

De Zerbi also stressed the need “not to accept defeat”, linking it to the team’s spirit. The draw leaves Spurs winless in the Premier League after six games, and the club is organising a warm-weather camp in Spain, with travel to Marbella expected on Sunday. Next up are newly-promoted Coventry on Monday 19 October, then a short trip to Chelsea the following Saturday.