A sensational second league goal of the season for Xavi after 77 minutes on Saturday night had Spurs on course for a much-needed three points at home to Brighton in their bid to avoid relegation.

However, Seagulls substitute Georginio Rutter levelled for the visitors in the fifth minute of stoppage time to earn a 2-2 draw and inflict a hammer blow to Tottenham’s survival hopes with their winless league run now at 15 matches.

“The goal in the last minute hurts,” Xavi reflected.

“I think the fans were fantastic and we have to keep working through this.

“You could see the atmosphere that was in the stadium from the first minute and we as players feel that as well. What I can say is we are really working hard to go through this situation.

“The new manager is coming in so we have to adapt on things, but we are going in the right direction and we are going to work hard for the last five games.”

Playmaker Xavi, who signed last August for £52million, was encouraged by their improved attacking display in only De Zerbi’s second fixture in charge even though Tottenham are consigned to the bottom three for another week.

Spurs struggled for fluency throughout Thomas Frank’s turbulent reign and Xavi was left out in the cold for the majority of Igor Tudor’s nightmare seven-match tenure.

After Xavi made his first league start since March 1 on Saturday, the Netherlands international promised to do all in his power to ensure Tottenham avoid a first relegation in 49 years.

Xavi told SpursPlay: “I have been through a difficult journey I would say this season, but it is life and I am still young and I have to learn things.

“I am really happy the coach is here and for me especially. I want to play football, I want to score and assist and I want to help the team to go through this situation together.

“These are the kind of games I want to be on the pitch and show everyone I can help the team.

“I am just putting the work in morning, afternoon and night. I want to really help the team and that is the most important thing.”

De Zerbi was delighted with Xavi, but feels there is more to come.

“He played very well. A great game. I think he can play better and better, because a player like this, he needs to feel confidence from the manager and I stay here to transfer all the confidence he needs,” De Zerbi promised.