Tottenham lose again in the Premier League is the headline, as Ange tells the press that his hand-picked team are ‘pushing on’ …as if that means anything to anyone, other than himself. Having exited the domestic cups, all eyes will focus on the Europa League which, curiously, we’ve been shortlisted with bookmakers as among the favourites. The struggles in North London this term have led to plenty of questions being asked of manager Ange Postecoglou and whether he is the man who can guide Spurs to success.
Given that Postecoglou has spoken about his ability to win trophies in his second season with clubs, this has certainly only added to the pressure already on his shoulders. Speaking live on talkSPORT Danny Murphy added to that as he delivered a blunt verdict, saying: “Spurs have got to win the Europa League otherwise the season is a complete failure.” This may be a brutal assessment but is the former Spurs wrong?
Unibet is offering several welcome distractions from what’s playing out at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and one has to start asking serious questions about how long Ange Postecoglou can keep his job. Another old player is more charitable about our situation.
Hugo Lloris says Europa League success can save Tottenham’s hot and cold season – but Daniel Levy has already helped put them in the group of best clubs in the world. Spurs have had a season of chaos, with their worst league form for almost 31 years leaving Ange Postecoglou fighting for his future.
“Tottenham now belong in the group of the best clubs in the world. We all know that the reputation of Spurs and lacking trophies. But you have to realise that in 20 years, the club has become huge in the football world. Not only on the pitch, but also off the pitch with a strong image all around the world.”
That sounds all well and good, but how will Spurs fare when facing opponents at much shorter prices in Europe? As the rounds progress, opponents improve.
The round of 16 will see Spurs face AZ Alkmaar. Should we progress, to the quarter-final we will play either Eintracht Frankfurt or Ajax. If Ange has eyes on the semi-final: Bodo/Glimt, Olympiacos, Viktoria Plzen or Lazio await. The final will be contested by Real Sociedad, Man Utd, FCSB, Lyon, Fenerbahce, Rangers, AS Roma or Athletic Bilbao. If Spurs are serious about progressing, then some significant improvement will be required!
