Daniel Levy was awarded a CBE by the Prince of Wales for his services to charity and the community in Tottenham, as the former chairman opened up about Spurs' Premier League relegation concerns
Ex-Tottenham bosses Daniel Levy has emerged from his bunker of silence and declared "not in a million years" did he witness warning signs during his tenure as Tottenham chairman that the club could find itself battling relegation.
Speaking to the Press Association at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, Levy, who stepped down from his position after nearly 25 years in September, said "relegation was not something we ever considered" when he was supervising the construction of the £1billion Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2019.
Spurs sit two points above the Premier League drop zone, having managed just 38 points from 36 matches so far this campaign, not securing a league victory in 2026 until April 25.
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When questioned about his feelings regarding the club's league standing, he responded: "Emptiness... but I'm optimistic that we will remain in the Premier League."
He replied "never, no, not in a million years" when asked whether he spotted any indicators the club would find itself in a relegation fight.
Despite the side's dismal performance in the league, Levy stated he would carry on attending fixtures, declaring: "It's in my blood."
Levy received a CBE from the Prince of Wales for services to charity and the community in Tottenham, backing education, health and social inclusion and generating employment through the stadium's construction.
"I think Tottenham fans should be proud that the club has made such a fantastic contribution to the local population," he said. Having overseen Tottenham for 24 years, Levy was the Premier League's longest-serving chairman, yet he faced criticism from supporters for putting the club's commercial priorities ahead of achieving on-field glory.
Levy admitted he had wished to secure more trophies during his tenure, stating: "What I would have hoped for is winning the Premier League, winning the Champions League... easier said than done."
He revealed he discussed Aston Villa with William, who is a devoted Villa supporter, when he collected his honour.
"I thanked him for allowing us (Tottenham) to beat Aston Villa when we played them a few weeks ago," he said.
"He wished us luck the rest of the season, very much hoping that Tottenham survive in the Premier League."