Dr Tottenham in Dire Need of Financial Medicine
A Banner’s Timely Message
“24 years, 16 managers, 1 trophy. Time for Change.”
The banner said it all. It’s referring to Spurs, aka “Dr Tottenham”, but in particular, the Scrooge-like regime of Daniel Levy.
The Fans’ Frustration
Held aloft at the last home game – a humbling defeat to relegation- threatened Leicester City – the banner’s appearance was timely.
Significantly, it was aimed at the chairman, not the manager.
Ange Postecoglou is the 16th occupant of the dugout – some would say “fall guy” – since Levy took charge after the ENIC investment company assumed control in 2001.
The Club’s Decline
One and a half seasons in, the amiable Aussie has reached the average life expectancy of a modern Spurs manager.
But it is at Levy whom the fans are directing most of their anger.
As a club, Spurs have now gone from Big Six to Bottom Six.
They have lost six of the last seven games and, with four of the five clubs below them beginning to stir…
They couldn’t, could they?
Not since 1977 have the Lilywhites been relegated.
Recent form suggests it’s possible, but unlikely. To even mention it brings shame on the club that considers itself a member of the elite.
The Reasons Behind the Decline
As does the nickname “Doctor Tottenham” after recent performances revived ailing opponents.
Such a run would normally get a manager sacked, and after losing last weekend, Postecoglou admitted: “This is probably as low as we’ve been.”
But there are mitigating circumstances: an injury crisis that had it been on a battlefield, the white flag would have hoisted.
Right through the team from keeper – both keepers – to Son Heung Min, players have missed vital chunks of the season.
The entire defence has been decimated. Ditto the midfield and now it’s the strikers.
The Solution
And just as the wounded return, another falls. When both keepers were out, Levy himself flew to Prague to sign a 20-year-old emergency replacement.
The absences that have really hurt are those of Guglielmo Vicario in goal, Micky Van der Ven, the lightning-quick Dutch centreback, and whoever seems to play in midfield and up front.
Not helping has been Postecoglou’s stubborn refusal to rein in his attacking instincts.
In more critical sections, this has earned the erstwhile popular 59-year-old the monicker “Imposter-coglou”.
A Glint of Hope
Still, they are so far unscathed in three cup competitions – the FA Cup, the Carabao Cup and the Europa Conference.
In the FA Cup, they were a toe poke away from the greatest shock in the tournament’s history at seventh-tier, Tamworth.
Somehow they hung on to eke out an inglorious win as the part-timers ran out of ammunition in extra time.
The Future
A glint of silverware might be enough to save him, but can anything save Levy from the wrath of Spurs fans?
They can’t remove him – only the ENIC board can and he’s on it. He has also made the members extremely wealthy.
The longest-serving chairman in the EPL, he has transformed the club and built one of the world’s great stadiums.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr Tottenham is in dire need of financial medicine. The club has been plagued by poor management, lack of investment, and a stubborn refusal to change. The fans are frustrated and angry, and it’s time for Levy to take a hard look at himself and the club he loves. It’s time for change, and it’s time for Spurs to start winning again.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of Spurs?
A: Spurs are currently in the Bottom Six and have lost six of their last seven games.
Q: Who is to blame for Spurs’ decline?
A: Daniel Levy, the chairman, is the main target of fan anger and frustration.
Q: What is the solution to Spurs’ problems?
A: The solution is to invest in the team, bring in new players, and change the manager if necessary.
Q: Is there any hope for Spurs?
A: Yes, there is still hope. Spurs are unscathed in three cup competitions and have a chance to win a trophy, which could be enough to save the manager and the club.