Joao Palhinha: “We all knew the importance of this game - the club is much more than us”
Joao Palhinha described his winner against Everton as the most important goal of his career - in ‘one of the most important days in my career’.
The Portugal midfielder known for his aggression in the engine room – second in tackles in the Premier League standings, behind Everton’s James Garner – produced a moment of magic that secured the vital 1-0 win against Everton and therefore preserve our Premier League status.
Joao rose to meet Mathys Tel’s corner, headed against the post and then reacted quickest to poke a follow up effort at goal that squeezed past James Pickford and crept just over the line, despite the efforts of Thierno Barry. Kevin Danso was there to make sure, just in case.
It was a result we needed - West Ham beat Leeds 3-0 at London Stadium - and it meant we finished two points clear of the Hammers in 17th - our first home win since December, but a third win for Robert De Zerbi in seven games.
Asked if it was the most important goal of his career, Joao told us: “Yeah, definitely. In one of the most important days in my career as well as a player. It was really special after this tough season, really tough. It was not easy.
“Everyone was living this week in a different mood as well because we knew the importance of this game today.
“I said before that this club is much more than us. We represent the club today, but the fans are here all their life. A lot of people leave from the club, not just as players, but also there are many things around the club (more) than the players.
“To give them this victory and keep the club for sure where he belongs was our main objective. Overall, it was not good enough for the level of Tottenham. We all know that, but I think, as I said before, this season for sure will help Tottenham growing for the future.”