Tottenham sit 17th on 37 points with just three matches to go as they try to survive relegation under De Zerbi, who has won his last two games in charge.
Leeds sit six points and three places clear of Tottenham and are all but safe from relegation despite being promoted last season, as they continue to defy the odds.
Back-to-back away wins over Wolves and Aston Villa have taken Tottenham out of the bottom three for the first time in a while, but they must stay consistent if they are to refrain from dropping down.
De Zerbi wants to keep Palhinha
The Italian also commented on the future of Joao Palhinha, a player whom Tottenham signed on a season-long loan deal, with an option to buy, from Bayern Munich last summer.
De Zerbi has allowed the 30-year-old to flourish in his opening games, with him even scoring the winner against Wolves. When asked if he wanted to keep the midfielder, De Zerbi was open and honest.
"100%. We have to start from this type of people. More than players, we need reliable people and players and Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure but as a guy.
"I want to see players have the same personality, attitude and spirit, and we're lucky to have him."
Vicario, Maddison and Solanke are not ready
De Zerbi first gave a whole host of team news on a Tottenham side ravaged by injuries, firstly speaking on goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
“No Vicario is not ready yet. I don't know what will be the plan. He's suffering because he would like to help the team and his teammates. But he's not available yet.
"I am thinking about James Maddison because I am watching a top, top player. Maybe he is not ready yet to play not as a physical condition, but for the rhythm or intensity of the game, you are playing in Premier League, most difficult league in the world for rhythm and intensity.
"About Solanke, he is improving very quickly. I don’t know if for this game.”