Every word hit the bullseye as self-belief, unity, fierce competitiveness, quality, fight and sheer bloody-mindedness – words that have been like a foreign language at Spurs in this torrid campaign – surged through De Zerbi’s side.
From the moment Villa keeper Emi Martinez was hurried into a clearance that created a chance for Richarlison in the opening seconds, the visitors were all over their opponents in every action.
The midfield partnership of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur dominated with quality and physical power, creating and defending in equal measure.
They were too formidable for Villa and the fact the pair have only been able to start 12 games together in the league this season has not helped Spurs in their struggle.
And while the team have so often looked lost, divided and broken during the managerial tenures of Thomas Frank and interim Igor Tudor, this was a team locked tight.
Bentancur celebrated winning a first-half foul after some superb defence in his own penalty area with a clenched fist before receiving a hug from Kevin Danso.
When Palhinha did something similar in the second half, he received a kiss from striker Randal Kolo Muani.
That was a moment to delight De Zerbi as he said: “I love Palhinha like this. I don’t ask players to do it, but when I see this passion I become crazy.”
The body language reflected a newfound self-assurance. If Spurs had voices inside their heads, they were now positive.
Not that the demanding De Zerbi was totally satisfied as he told BBC Sport’s Match of the Day: “Now I don’t want to hear the positive voice.
“We have to stay focused for the next game. I think my biggest job is to help the players show their qualities. Their level is not to fight for relegation, but we have to accept and be stronger than the people who speak too much.
