Spurs have claimed only one victory at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League era and lost 10 of the last 12 meetings between the rival clubs.

However, De Zerbi was quick to shut down any suggestions Tottenham’s poor form in this derby will add pressure and instead backed his players to build on Monday’s 3-1 home win over Coventry.

Asked if he sensed any fear in his squad, De Zerbi said: “No. I think no because I play just one game with Chelsea as Tottenham coach. Anyway, it has to be one motivation more. Not one more problem for us.

“What is the problem? We didn’t play in the past for Tottenham and I was not the Tottenham coach in the last seasons. It is not a problem. We have already many problems and this is not a problem.

“I think it’s not just this negative record. There are many, many negative records, but for me it’s one motivation more.

“For the players, I want this negative record, they give us more motivation, more mentality, more energy to win a game, to play a good game, because we have the qualities enough to win.

“Yes, it’s a derby against one very good team, very good coach, they have a clear style of play, great players, but also Tottenham players are very good.

“The level of the (Tottenham) players is high. We have to show together as a team, not as an individual.”