BBC

Tottenham: Spurs write to PGMOL chief Howard Webb over refereeing decisions

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham: Spurs write to PGMOL chief Howard Webb over refereeing decisions - BBC
Description

Tottenham have written to Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) chief Howard Webb to raise their concerns over key refereeing decisions.

Sources have told BBC Sport the correspondence is primarily focused on what the club views as inconsistent decisions that have led to goals being allowed or disallowed as a result of contact inside the penalty area.

Spurs believe they have been on the wrong end of a number of these key incidents this season.

During Tottenham's 4-1 home loss to north London rivals Arsenal on 22 February, striker Randal Kolo Muani had a goal - which would have levelled the score at 2-2 - ruled out after the officials adjudged the France international had pushed opposing defender Gabriel Magalhaes in the back just moments before slotting beyond David Raya.

It has been noted by Spurs that referee Peter Bankes, who officiated in the derby against Arsenal, said in last week's episode of the Match Officials Mic'd Up show how, "once you see two hands in live play, it looks like a push, a clear push. I was more than happy that the two hands on the back had enough impact and was an offence".

With that in mind, Tottenham were left confused why Fulham winger Harry Wilson's opener against them in Saturday's 2-1 loss at Craven Cottage was allowed to stand.

Mexico striker Raul Jimenez appeared to push Spurs defender Radu Dragusin in the build-up to Wilson's strike as the pair jumped for an aerial challenge, but the goal was allowed to stand because the contact did not meet the threshold for a foul.

Source

Premier League LIVE: Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace news conferences

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Premier League LIVE: Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace news conferences - BBC
Description

'It is a mess at Spurs'

Tottenham v Crystal Palace (Thu, 20:00 GMT)

Luke Edwards

Daily Telegraph writer on the Football Daily podcast

Tudor's done a variation of 'they can't attack, can't defend and can't score goals'. If you look at what he's said, he's basically saying his team is rubbish.

He's doing that after two games. He's come in to replace Thomas Frank. Do we think Tottenham would be looking more likely to stay up under Frank or Tudor, who looks like a scorched-earth policy?

They look vulnerable, fragile, like a team who have forgotten how to win games. I do have to query whether a new manager coming in and being that volatile and aggressively critical, what sort of impact is that going to be having on a team and a group already shell-shocked from what is happening this season?

On recent evidence, West Ham are playing better than Tottenham, Leeds are. Nottingham Forest haven't been great but you still think they are better than Tottenham.

Are they equipped to do what needs to be done in a relegation fight? To do what is necessary. You have to question the manager, the players and those above them making decisions. It is a mess.

get involved

Get Involved - Who will get relegated from the Premier League?

Click 'Get Involved' to have your say

Well, you've seen what Opta have had to say with their percentages but who do you think will get relegated from this year's Premier League?

Are Wolves roaring a little too late, or could they pull off one of the greatest escapes of all time?

And Tottenham, of course. Just a 4.45% likelihood of being relegated according to the supercomputer - but could they really go down?

Those above that, on any other given year you would say are safe, but maybe not so this year. Could a Leeds, Crystal Palace or even Newcastle on current form be dragged in?

You know what to do, click that 'Get Involved' button to have your say.

Which teams top Opta's Supercomputer relegation predictions?

Despite beating defending Premier League champions Liverpool last night, Opta's Supercomputer still believes the writing is well and truly on the wall for Rob Edwards' Wolves.

In fact, it is pretty certain that the current bottom three of Wolves, Burnley and West Ham United are all but down.

Nottingham Forest are only two points above the relegation zone but the Supercomputer appears to still have faith in them escaping relegation to the Championship. Perhaps Europa League form has helped their case?

Tottenham have also escaped some heat because, despite only being four points above the dreaded drop, they only have a 4.45% chance of relegation.

'The unimaginable could now happen'

Tottenham v Crystal Palace (Thu, 20:00 GMT)

Pat Nevin

Former Scotland winger

Tottenham Hotspur appear shorn of belief and good cheer. Listening to new boss Igor Tudor post-match, even he seems to have been dragged into a depression after just a couple of games.

They are now squarely in a relegation dogfight, but unfortunately there doesn't appear to be enough fight in the group. When you are down there the bare minimum is to kick, bite and scratch for everything, be it a tackle or a lucky point, but that isn't happening enough yet.

The others around them know what is needed. Forest have fight, West Ham have discovered a warrior spirit lately and even Burnley and Wolves are showing that spirit.

Spurs have good players but without that willingness to get down and dirty, the unimaginable could now happen.

'There are big problems here' - What did Tudor say after Fulham defeat?

Tottenham v Crystal Palace (Thu, 20:00 GMT)

Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur boss Igor Tudor criticised his side following the 2-1 defeat by Fulham, suggesting there were 'big problems' with the team.

"We were not good, lacked everything," he said.

"Attacking and defending. Fulham were much better. There are problems here, big problems. We need to stay calm, believe in what we are doing in training, and get out, staying all together.

"These are not things to speak outside, we speak in the dressing room. The problems are more complex [than attitude and commitment] second half was better, but the first half was not enough."

What incidents sparked Tottenham's complaint?

Tottenham v Crystal Palace (Thurs, 20:00 GMT)

Sami Mokbel

BBC Sport senior football correspondent

During Tottenham's 4-1 loss to Arsenal on 22 February, striker Randal Kolo Muani had a goal - which would have levelled the score at 2-2 - ruled out after the officials adjudged that he had pushed opposing defender Gabriel Magalhaes in the back just moments before scoring.

It had been noted by Tottenham that referee Peter Bankes, who officiated the north London derby, said in last week's episode of the Match Officials Mic'd Up: "Once you see two hands in live play, it looks like a push - a clear push."

With that in mind, Tottenham were left confused why Fulham winger Harry Wilson's opener against them in Saturday's 2-1 loss was allowed to stand. Raul Jimenez appeared to push Radu Dragusin in the build-up to Wilson's strike, as the pair jumped for an aerial challenge, but the goal stood because the contact did not meet the threshold for a foul.

In relation to the Kolo Muani and Dragusin incidents, the video assistant referee (VAR) did not intervene and the on-field referee made both calls.

Speaking about the Jimenez incident, interim head coach Igor Tudor said: "Of course, it's a foul. It's always a foul. It's an incredible mistake."

It is understood Tottenham have provided PGMOL with further examples of where similar situations have occurred this season with differing outcomes.

Source

Tottenham news: Monday Night club discusses Igor Tudor

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham news: Monday Night club discusses Igor Tudor - BBC
Description

On the latest episode of BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club, the panel discuss the "tough love" Igor Tudor has shown his Tottenham players in his first few weeks in charge.

Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton says the Croat "hasn't helped himself" with the comments he has made about his players, adding that there is a possibility he could be dismissed should Spurs lose their next match on Thursday.

"I'd be surprised if he had even watched Tottenham before he took over - I just don't get the guy." Sutton said.

"He was so upbeat in his first news conference, but after seeing his team train and play he has blamed Thomas Frank for everything and told the players they don't try."

Source

Tottenham transfer rumours: Micky van de Ven

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham transfer rumours: Micky van de Ven - BBC
Description

Micky van de Ven is not interested in extending his Tottenham contract, with Barcelona and Real Madrid monitoring the defender for a summer move. (Give Me Sport), external

Meanwhile, Spurs players are facing mandatory wage cuts if they get relegated from the Premier League. (Athletic - subscription required), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Tuesday's full gossip column

Source

Tottenham fined by Uefa and given suspended ticket ban after fans' Nazi salutes

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham fined by Uefa and given suspended ticket ban after fans' Nazi salutes - BBC
Description

Uefa has fined Tottenham Hotspur and given them a suspended ban from selling away tickets after three supporters made Nazi salutes towards Eintracht Frankfurt fans.

The incident occurred during their Champions League fixture - which Spurs won 2-0 - at the German club's Deutsche Bank Park on 28 January.

Uefa said it issued the ban for "the racist and/or discriminatory behaviour of its supporters" and it was "suspended for a probationary period of one year".

Tottenham were fined £26,000 (30,000 euros) by European football's governing body in addition to £1,966 (2,250 euros) for objects thrown by their supporters.

Spurs said the "conduct of a small number of fans" was "utterly abhorrent" and have issued them with banning orders.

"We can confirm that all three individuals found to be making Nazi salutes towards Eintracht Frankfurt fans have been identified and have received indefinite bans under the club's sanctions and banning policy," said Spurs.

"The club stands firmly against all forms of discrimination and has therefore taken the strongest possible action. The disgusting behaviour of a minority of so-called fans on the night is in no way reflective of the values of our club and its supporters."

Source

Guglielmo Vicario: Premier League deletes social media post about Tottenham goalkeeper

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Guglielmo Vicario: Premier League deletes social media post about Tottenham goalkeeper - BBC
Description

The Premier League has deleted a social media post which appeared to mock Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario following fan backlash and a complaint by the club.

On Sunday night, the Premier League posted on its official X account a video of Vicario sending a free-kick down the length of the pitch and out for a goal-kick during Sunday's loss at Fulham, with the caption: "Just how the play was drawn up."

The video, which also featured the words "an interesting free-kick from Vicario" followed by "whoops", was widely criticised before being deleted on Monday morning.

Tottenham contacted the Premier League to complain about the post, voicing their view that the league should not be mocking its own teams and players.

Spurs remain just four points above the relegation places after the 2-1 defeat at Fulham on Sunday afternoon.

Source

Premier League: Fulham 2-1 Tottenham - Match of the Day analysis

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Premier League: Fulham 2-1 Tottenham - Match of the Day analysis - BBC
Description

'They look all over the shop' - Hart. Video, 00:03:31'They look all over the shop' - Hart

Up Next. Hart breaks down why 'disciplined' Raya is so good. Video, 00:03:03Hart breaks down why 'disciplined' Raya is so good

'The fans have spoken' - Why Frank's future at Spurs looks bleak. Video, 00:01:48'The fans have spoken' - Why Frank's future at Spurs looks bleak

Will Frank and Glasner see the season out? Video, 00:02:49Will Frank and Glasner see the season out?

'Emotions always close' - Moody on life since MND diagnosis. Video, 00:02:57'Emotions always close' - Moody on life since MND diagnosis

Branthwaite to give 'best shot' at making World Cup squad. Video, 00:02:35Branthwaite to give 'best shot' at making World Cup squad

'Everybody knew what they were part of' - Williamson on Euro 2022. Video, 00:02:27'Everybody knew what they were part of' - Williamson on Euro 2022

'It's the ultimate role' - Carrick on Man Utd job. Video, 00:03:16'It's the ultimate role' - Carrick on Man Utd job

Source

Premier League highlights: Fulham 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Premier League highlights: Fulham 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur - BBC
Description

Up Next. How MMA fighters reacted to UFC's White House plans. Video, 00:01:59How MMA fighters reacted to UFC's White House plans

Branthwaite to give 'best shot' at making World Cup squad. Video, 00:02:35Branthwaite to give 'best shot' at making World Cup squad

'Everybody knew what they were part of' - Williamson on Euro 2022. Video, 00:02:27'Everybody knew what they were part of' - Williamson on Euro 2022

'It's the ultimate role' - Carrick on Man Utd job. Video, 00:03:16'It's the ultimate role' - Carrick on Man Utd job

'Shouldn't be in the game' - Rosenior wants stronger racism penalties. Video, 00:02:12'Shouldn't be in the game' - Rosenior wants stronger racism penalties

Source

Tudor fury at 'home referee' as Spurs left in 'serious emergency'

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tudor fury at 'home referee' as Spurs left in 'serious emergency' - BBC
Description

"He was a home team referee", who "doesn't understand football."

Furious interim Tottenham manager Igor Tudor left nobody in any doubt about his thoughts on Fulham's opening goal on Sunday, as a 2-1 defeat deepened his side's relegation fears.

Tudor also accused Fulham's Raul Jimenez of "cheating" by pushing Radu Dragusin before Harry Wilson swept home.

And such was his anger, he made the accusation of Thomas Bramall being a "home referee" twice.

What made it worse for the 47-year-old Croatian was a belief Tottenham were denied a goal in similar circumstances last week when Randal Kolo Muani thought he had made it 2-2 against Arsenal, only for the goal to be ruled out for a push on Gabriel.

Tudor, furious at what he called an "incredible mistake", told BBC Sport: "Their first goal changes the situation on the pitch. It's a big refereeing mistake. There's no consistency last week, what happened today was incredible. The referee was incredible today – not giving a goal there is madness.

"It's about consistency of the decision, they need to understand even if it is a soft touch but he is not watching the ball, it is a foul. He [Jimenez] gained an advantage and they scored. You need to give these fouls.

"I didn't like the referee today, too much of a home team referee. I didn't feel well with him. All the decisions were on their side. He doesn't understand football, the feeling of what is wrong and what is right.

"He [Jimenez] was not thinking about the ball, he was thinking how to cheat, he cheated the player, was pushing, it was cheating and it's a foul. Ninety-nine of 100 people will say it's a foul, it's so obvious."

Ever since a one season spell in the old Second Division in 1977-78, Tottenham have been a top-flight club - and that position has rarely been under threat.

Yes, Spurs came 17th in 2024-25, but they ended 13 points better off than 18th-placed Leicester, with Ange Postecoglou focusing on the Europa League towards the end of the season, a competition which they went on to win.

This year feels more perilous.

Make no mistake, Tottenham – 16th in the Premier League and four points above the relegation zone – are in a battle to stay up.

Speaking after the 2-1 loss at Fulham, Spurs midfielder Yves Bissouma, said: "We lost again. It is not easy, especially for us, for the club. It is not good for everyone.

"We know this is a big emergency. We need to change a lot of things, we need to put effort into the game to try and win games. At the moment, it is just hard."

Reacting to that interview, former Premier League title winner Chris Sutton, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, said: "If you're a Spurs fan and listening to that Bissouma interview, there are alarm bells ringing. They are in real danger of going down."

A 2-1 loss at Fulham might not sound too bad in isolation against an impressive Cottagers side that have eyes on Europe, but it is now 10 league games without a win. They are currently suffering their worst run in 32 years since a similar streak under Ossie Ardiles in 1994.

Against Fulham, Spurs scored from their only effort on target through Richarlison's header and it was the hosts were threatened to add to their own tally – Fulham manager Marco Silva bemoaning the score "not reflecting our superiority on the pitch".

Facing far bigger problems, Tudor, who has now lost both of his games since replacing the sacked Thomas Frank, said: "We need to find forces inside each of us, where are we going to go?

"When we attack, we lack the quality to score the goals. I want to see everything more, more personality, more wish to do things. We were not good, lacked everything. Attacking and defending, Fulham were much better.

"Of course it is a confidence problem, it's not about systems. I don't want to speak about relegation all the time - I give the same answer, my answer is always the same.

"We don't need to think about that [relegation], not because it cannot happen, but we must focus on growing mentality as a team, concentration, physically."

Tudor, a two-time Serie A champion as a player with Juventus, is getting first-hand experience of how Spurs have been a team of great contrasts this season, struggling domestically but progressing nicely in the Champions League with a two-legged tie against Atletico Madrid in the last 16 to come.

A second-half capitulation saw Tottenham lose 4-1 at home against leaders Arsenal in Tudor's first game, but the manner of their loss at Craven Cottage may be more worrying.

"We want our Tottenham back" was one of the chants from those Spurs supporters, on another miserable day for them.

Former Tottenham goalkeeper Joe Hart, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, summed up the feelings and said: "It is serious, really serious.

"With 28 games played now, they're looking at the table with 29 points on the board.

"That is the only thing their focus can be on this season. Obviously, they have got the Champions League to enjoy, but when it comes to the league it is about amassing as many points as possible."

For Tudor and Tottenham, 10 league games remain, starting with Crystal Palace at home on Thursday, before the first of their two European ties with Atletico.

"We need to forget this game and focus on training," added Tudor. "We need to stay calm, believe in what we are dong in training, and get out, staying all together.

"The problems are more complex [than attitude and commitment] second half was better, but the first half was not enough.

"There are problems here, big problems."

There is a misconception that VAR exists to ensure consistency of decision-making, but this has never been its remit.

It is there to fix clear and obvious errors – and that is why we see similar situations with different outcomes.

It is one of the many reasons why fans struggle to understand what VAR is trying to achieve.

We can pick out four decisions - three were goals, and one was disallowed – though all three involving Spurs went against them.

Earlier this season, Tottenham conceded a goal against Liverpool when Hugo Ekitike had hands on Cristian Romero.

Last week, Tottenham had a Randal Kolo Muani goal ruled out when there was a small push in the back of Gabriel.

And on Sunday, Fulham's goal stood despite Igor Tudor's claims of a push by Raul Jimenez on Radu Dragusin.

Fulham themselves will point to a goal they conceded against Manchester United at the start of the season.

Leny Yoro had two hands on the back of Calvin Bassey, but the goal was allowed to stand.

Judging the consistency of VAR is about the intervention, not the final outcome.

All these decisions have been left to referee's call, whichever way they have gone.

Yes, you could argue that the inconsistency is on the field, but it is a pipe dream to expect overall consistency when every situation is slightly different.

What is certain is that VAR has not wavered from sticking with the original decision.

Source