Tottenham Hotspur decided to part ways with David Pleat at the end of last season.
The consultant scout played a key role in signing players like Jan Vertonghen, Dele Alli and Ben Davies since he was appointed in the role in 2010. However, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy informed him at the end of last season that his services were no longer required because scouting has moved to a more data-driven process.
He said to the Telegraph: “Daniel Levy called me in and said, ‘you know it’s all data driven now, we don’t need eyes and ears’. What a nonsense. I didn’t argue. He’s in charge. Actually, I have huge respect for him. The legacy of the new stadium and training ground will always be there. That is all down to him and his drive. Although they’ve won nothing for years.”
The 79-year-old has spent a significant amount of his life at Tottenham and he has held various roles such as the manager of the club and the director of football as well.
When he was appointed as the club’s director of football in 1998 under Alan Sugar, he played a key role in the acquisitions of Frederic Kanoute, Robbie Keane, Jermain Defoe, and Paul Robinson as well.
Pleat went on to reveal that he wanted to sell his memoir through the Tottenham club shop, but he was not allowed to do so. The former manager and scout wanted to launch his memoir and do a presentation at the club, but Daniel Levy is yet to get back to him with a positive response.
He further explained that he does not have a guaranteed seat at the Tottenham Stadium either, and he was told that he can get a ticket at the club subject to availability.
For someone with extensive contribution towards the club, Levy’s treatment of the 79 year-old will certainly disappoint the fans and it remains to be seen whether the Tottenham chairman chooses to respond to his remarks.
