Former Arsenal player and football pundit Paul Merson believes that Tottenham Hotspur should consult with Harry Kane before appointing a new manager to replace the outgoing Antonio Conte.
With only 12 months left on his contract, there is a strong possibility that Kane may leave the club in the summer, which could prove a significant blow to Tottenham’s chances of attracting a top-tier manager.
Tottenham’s recent form has seen them drop out of contention for the top four places in the Premier League, with Newcastle United and Manchester United occupying third and fourth place respectively.
Spurs are currently in fifth place, one point behind their rivals, and with Brighton and Hove Albion also in contention for a top-four finish, the race for Champions League qualification is heating up.
Merson believes that Spurs will struggle to attract a top-tier manager if they miss out on Champions League football and lose Kane in the summer.
Speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday, he suggested that the club should consult with Kane about who they should appoint as their next manager.
He said (h/t Express):
“Surely, if you are Tottenham, then you’re going to Harry Kane and asking Harry Kane, surely? As soon as Harry Kane goes, that is it! Who wants to be the manager of Tottenham Hotspur if Harry Kane isn’t there?”
🗣️ “Who wants to be manager of Tottenham Hotspur if Harry Kane goes?”
Paul Merson can’t see people lining up to take over at Spurs if Harry Kane leaves in the summer. 💭 pic.twitter.com/BoFWG6OKEu
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) April 1, 2023
While Merson’s suggestion that Kane should have a say in the appointment of a new manager may be controversial, the striker’s stature at the club and his position as club captain means that his opinion may carry weight with the board.
Tottenham have been linked with a number of high-profile managers in recent weeks, including Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann, and now Brendan Rodgers, who was recently sacked by Leicester City.
Rodgers has been a long-term target for Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, but whether he will be able to persuade the Northern Irishman to take over at the helm remains to be seen.
