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Five managers ready to save Tottenham from relegation immediately

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Five managers ready to save Tottenham from relegation immediately - Daily Express
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Tottenham are considering appointing a third manager this season as they sit perilously close to the relegation zone. A 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest has left them just one point clear of the Premier League drop.

Igor Tudor has only been in charge as interim boss for seven matches but has found it difficult to steer them away from jeopardy. The Croatian has secured just one victory so far and has seen his Spurs team continue to look uninspired in domestic competition. The club's bosses may be mulling over a managerial change during the March international break to avoid relegation to the Championship. Now, Express Sport looks at five candidates for the Spurs job and their comments on the possibility of taking the reins in north London.

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Glenn Hoddle

Glenn Hoddle has admitted he would be open to managing his boyhood club if circumstances don't improve. When asked whether he would return to north London, Hoddle told the Could it be Magic FA Cup podcast that the club was a "massive part" of his life throughout his career and beyond.

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The former Tottenham midfielder said: "I think I would, actually. Particularly with Tottenham, as that’s my club. I’ve supported them since I was eight years of age. So they were a massive part of my life."

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Acknowledging the difficulties during his previous spell in charge at Spurs, Hoddle continued: "I managed them probably at the wrong time, I’ve got to say, politically and financially. [There] wasn’t the money there. Certainly, it wasn’t what they told me I was going into."

Tim Sherwood

Tim Sherwood has also put himself forward and claims he "can do the job." Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Aston Villa and Spurs manager said: "It was an honour for me to manage that football club and it would be an honour for me to manage them again. I can do the job. I have proved that I can do the job. What they can't do is make a mistake with this appointment."

Highlighting his confidence before Tudor's appointment, Sherwood added: "I'm 50/1, so there's no chance really ... But maybe it's not sexy enough, I might have too much of a personality for that hierarchy. If you look at what I did when I went in there, I did the job. I did the job I was asked to do and won more games than losses. My home record was excellent as well.

"I played on the front foot. Forget how you're going to play in this situation, they need to win, no matter how you play, you need to win. They need to take the shackles off this group of players, get some confidence and make sure they're prepared for a relegation battle. When I look through that squad, I'd probably hand my hat on five of them to have a fight down there, they're not ready for a fight at the moment when you look from the outside."

Harry Redknapp

Managerial icon Harry Redknapp is also eager to provide the Spurs squad with a boost ahead of their potential relegation fight. Speaking at the Cheltenham Festival, where he saw one of his horses compete in the Gold Cup, the former West Ham manager said the club's leadership are aware of his availability.

Redknapp told Sky Sports: "They know where I am if they need me. They need somebody to go in there and give them a lift and make them believe in themselves. They're bang in trouble, I must be truthful. It's going to be tight at the bottom, isn't it?"

During an interview with talkSPORT earlier this week, the 79-year-old revealed he had spoken about the situation with former Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, who informed him he would have handed Redknapp the job until the summer.

"I got a phone call last week from Daniel, funnily enough," Redknapp said. "I think I spoke to him once since I left all that time ago. I was in the car last week and suddenly my phone goes – it's Daniel Levy. I was on the phone to him for about half an hour. He said to me: 'If I was there now, and I'm not just saying it, I would bring you back until the end of the season, Harry'. That would have been interesting."

Gus Poyet

Gus Poyet is another former Spurs player who would be prepared to take on the role in north London. The 58-year-old was last in charge of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, spending a year there before stepping down at the end of last season.

When asked whether he would accept an offer from his former club, Poyet told talkSPORT: "I can't say no and I have to trust my ability, I have no doubt. But listen, me, I like when the clubs, they support the coach. I like it."

The ex-midfielder has enjoyed stints at several clubs including Brighton, Sunderland and Real Betis.

Roberto De Zerbi

Roberto De Zerbi hasn't stated explicitly that he would accept the Spurs job. However, the former Marseille manager is understood to be open to the role in the summer at least - though only if they remain in the Premier League.

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De Zerbi is reported to have held private talks with Spurs and is viewed as a frontrunner for the summer vacancy alongside Mauricio Pochettino, as per The Telegraph.

The Italian might contemplate arriving earlier at the club in order to ensure Spurs remain in the top flight. Given that De Zerbi is currently without a club - having left Marseille in February - he may be convinced to join before the season's conclusion.

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Jurgen Klopp speaks out on management return after calls for him to join Spurs

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Jurgen Klopp speaks out on management return after calls for him to join Tottenham - Daily Express
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Jurgen Klopp could be poised for a stunning return to management just months after Tottenham were encouraged to appoint the ex-Liverpool manager, although it's unlikely to be with the north Londoners. Since January 2025, Klopp has worked as Red Bull's Head of Global Football, managing operations across its group of clubs such as RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg and New York Red Bulls, among others.

The German previously claimed he was done with coaching, though he has lately softened that stance. Amid reports linking him to Real Madrid, Klopp rejected the talk, insisting: "That is all nonsense. They didn't even call - not once. They didn't even call my agent." Still, he continued: "As for the future, I'm not quite finished as a coach yet. So who knows what might come up in the next few years. But there are absolutely no plans in that regard."

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Throughout the campaign, Klopp has also been linked with a possible return to Liverpool. However, former Spurs chairman Alan Sugar has expressed a desire to see him take charge in north London.

In December, he said: "With the massive fortune of the Lewis family [who own Spurs], it would be a win-win situation if they hired Jurgen Klopp in January. Loads of money for players and a great manager. Who agrees?"

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At that point, then-head coach Thomas Frank was under scrutiny following a 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, which left Spurs sitting 11th. Three months on, the situation has deteriorated significantly, with Tottenham now down in 17th after another 3-0 defeat to Forest.

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That result - their sixth loss in seven league fixtures - has put interim manager Igor Tudor under serious pressure. Installed in February after Frank's exit, Tudor has secured only one victory in seven games - a frantic 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, which ultimately counted for little as Spurs were eliminated 7-5 on aggregate.

Tottenham now face a genuine risk of relegation from the Premier League, in what could be one of the most shocking drops from the top tier since Manchester United went down in 1974.

When league play resumes after the international break, Spurs will face Sunderland - a fixture that may be crucial for Tudor's future. With his deal due to run out at the end of the season, the club are already expected to pursue a long-term appointment this summer, though that timeline could accelerate if Tudor leaves sooner.

Names like Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi have been mentioned as possible candidates. Yet the growing danger of relegation may complicate any hiring plans.

Despite Sugar's proposal, Klopp has essentially dismissed the idea of managing another English side. After stepping down from Liverpool in 2024, he said: "If you ask me, 'Will you ever work as a manager again?' I would say now no. What I know definitely - I will never, ever manage a different club in England than Liverpool, 100 per cent. That's not possible."

During his nine-year tenure at Anfield, Klopp collected numerous trophies, including the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. Although he secured only one league crown, his team consistently performed at a top level, surpassing 90 points on three occasions - only to be edged out twice by Pep Guardiola’s dominant Manchester City side.

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Alan Sugar bought his childhood club, Tottenham, in 1991 during a period of major financial difficulty. While his ownership helped steady the club financially, success on the field proved much harder to achieve.

Across nearly 10 years as chairman, Spurs claimed just one trophy - the 1999 League Cup. Their best league finish in that era was seventh, and they ended 10th or lower in seven separate seasons.

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Manager Merry-go-round: Slot and Howe sack verdicts and replacements

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Manager Merry-go-round: Slot, Howe and Rosenior sack verdicts and who could replace them - Daily Express
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The Premier League is nearing its conclusion and yet there are a handful of managers, those at the very top of their field, under severe and increasing pressure.

Liverpool's aborted title defence has caused Arne Slot to face jeers and boos at Anfield as he clings on to the hope that a Champions League campaign can change the minds of his detractors.

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Eddie Howe, the face and inspiration of a new-look Newcastle, has seen the pressure ramp up following a 2-1 derby defeat to Sunderland that left the Magpies floundering in the bottom half of the table.

They're in a more secure position than Tottenham and Igor Tudor, however, with Spurs perched just a point above the relegation zone. They are yet to win a league game in 2026.

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Fellow fresh face Liam Rosenior, too, is facing calls to end his short-lived tenure in England. Chelsea are staring at the prospect of missing out on Champions League football next season, despite replacing Enzo Maresca with Rosenior in January.

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Here, Express Sport and a few experts take a look at each manager's situation, whether they should be dismissed, and who could step in to replace them...

Liverpool and Arne Slot

Stephen Killen

Ultimately, it can't go on like this much longer for Liverpool and Arne Slot has to find the answers quickly, but that has been the case for a number of months. There has rarely been a sacking culture at Anfield, and those in the hot seat have previously been given appropriate time to fix their issues until their position became untenable. You would suspect the same for the Dutchman, who has faced unprecedented circumstances and mitigating factors behind some of the dour results and performances. With the success of last season, he should be given the chance to have a fully-fit squad to turn it around between now and the end of May.

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The Reds have become uninspiring and abject in equal measure this season and there is a feeling among Liverpool supporters that Slot might not be in situ in August. The Anfield hierarchy proved with the appointment of the former Feyenoord head coach that they tend to work outside the box, so Slot's replacement may not be as standout as it may seem. Former midfielder Xabi Alonso is considered the favourite, but reports previously suggested that the likes of Stuttgart's Sebastian Hoeness see his data score similar to that of Jurgen Klopp, having impressed after steering the German side to second place in 2023/24 and another European challenge this term, where they sit third.

Jack McEachen

Football fans have short memories. Less than a year ago, Arne Slot was coasting to the Premier League title and heralded as the greatest manager on the planet. Now, he's deemed out of depth and needs to be sacked. The reality lies somewhere in the middle. In some ways, after one historic season and another disaster, the slate has been wiped clean.

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But perhaps more crucially, Liverpool are still in the Champions League. They could win Europe's top competition, surely there is no danger of Slot getting sacked while that is still a possibility.

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Those in charge at Anfield are patient and considerate, they won't make a move without weighing up all the factors.

But with a healthy Alexander Isak at his disposal and a more well-equipped Florian Wirtz, there will be no excuses for Slot should he fail to restore Liverpool to the top of the table.

Archie Griggs

Unfortunately for the Dutchman, there is no room for sentiment at the very highest level. Although he delivered Liverpool the Premier League title last season, their current plight suggests that a change is needed for the Reds to return to their best.

Questions remain about whether Slot was actually the driving force behind last season's title, or if he simply inherited a winning team built during Jurgen Klopp's tenure. Either way, the feel-good factor is well and truly gone and I can't see a miraculous recovery on the horizon. It's time for Slot to go, but with thanks and best wishes for the future.

Charlie Malam

Liverpool have won nine of their last 26 Premier League games, losing 10. It’s mid-table form. If they get Champions League, it’s pure luck, because Chelsea have faltered. The performance and win over Galatasaray has bought Slot more time, for sure.

But even if they can recreate that display twice against PSG, they’ll concede too many goals and go out. Man City will dump them out of the FA Cup too. Fifth or lower, and no trophy, is a massive failure for the champions. Slot will pay the price but Xabi Alonso shouldn’t be his replacement. If you can’t prise Luis Enrique out of Paris, Julian Nagelsmann or Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeness can bring back the high-press blood and thunder football back to Anfield.

Chelsea and Liam Rosenior

Jack McEachen

Liam Rosenior has been at Chelsea for all of two months, how is there so much pressure on him already?

When you hire someone like Rosenior, a 41-year-old with less than 200 games managed under his belt, and none in the Premier League before this year, you accept that he is a project hire.

You grow with him and give him the tools to succeed over time. He's barely had a transfer window and with two games a week since he took over, no time to leave any sort of mark on this squad.

Chelsea may well miss out on the Champions League. But that should never have been the only objective to judge Rosenior on.

And if Rosenior is sacked so quickly then good luck attracting the best in his field to Stamford Bridge, why would they bother if this is the treatment they will get?

Archie Griggs

I'm generally not a fan of writing managers off too early unless it's abundantly clear that things aren't going to work out. But in this case, it's obvious that Rosenior is totally out of his depth and shouldn't have been given the Chelsea job in the first place.

I'm also not entirely convinced that he's destined to be a manager, with his nauseating soundbites and unusual quirks making him look more like a poor imitation of David Brent or an overzealous LinkedIn influencer than a top-level head coach.

Charlie Malam

He was never the right man and he’s not the long-term solution but let’s make it clear - Chelsea’s issues are much bigger than just the manager. They will still exist after Rosenior unless BlueCo adopt their strategy of simply hoovering up the next generation’s talents. Work on signing more Joao Pedro-level players.

If Chelsea miss out on top five, which is very feasible with their fixtures, Rosenior will go. Cesc Fabregas would be a fun replacement. His Como team play some of most exciting football across Europe and he has a connection with the club even though his allegiance is still more to Arsenal. If Chelsea want a win-now manager instead, get Carlo Ancelotti back post-World Cup and give him some more players ready to be elite immediately.

Newcastle and Eddie Howe

Lee Ryder

Changing manager with seven games left would be a major call by Newcastle United chiefs and from what I understand it's something they have not planned for, so they would be starting the search from scratch.

The plan in place is that Eddie Howe, Ross Wilson and David Hopkinson get their first crack at a summer window and pre-season planning unless there is a decision from the powers that be in PIF. Few can predict what PIF are thinking.

My own view is that Newcastle should battle on with Howe and his staff in the final seven games and give them the chance to perform and deliver a European place. Then it would be on to the summer.

Howe has credit in the bank but that won't last forever and there can be no excuses for the poor game management this season and two derby defeats. Going out the domestic cups to Man City is no disgrace nor is losing to a world-class Barcelona side.

But Newcastle's Premier League position is not good enough and failure to qualify for Europe at all would leave the board with a bigger decision to make this summer.

Howe's future lies in the balance. And regardless of last season's Carabao Cup victory, a lot of fans online and on the streets feel that things have reached an unsatisfactory level.

Jack McEachen

Newcastle have long described their ambition to be number one. It's time to start acting like it.

Eddie Howe is a fine manager and has served Newcastle well, but he is not among the European elites, at least at the defensive element of the game.

The club will point to PSR as they so often do, but managers are inexpensive compared to players. It's time to get the chequebook out and bring someone in who will get Newcastle competing for titles, as they hoped to do when PIF first took over.

Carlo Ancelotti, Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann, Gareth Southgate, Mauricio Pochettino. That's just five elite coaches who could be available after the World Cup. It's time to upgrade.

Archie Griggs

It's been a turbulent season for Newcastle, but a knee-jerk decision on Howe's future in the wake of a painful derby defeat isn't the way to go. Over the years, he has taken the Magpies from mid-table irrelevancy to the upper echelon of English football, regularly qualifying for Europe and competing for trophies with the country's biggest clubs.

The bottom line is that Howe shouldn't be made the fall guy for one sub-par campaign. He is a future England manager in the making and Newcastle would do well to remember that the grass isn't always greener, as countless clubs have discovered before them.

Charlie Malam

It feels like the natural end of the road for the Howe Newcastle project. Overall, he’s done a really good job and he’ll go down in the club’s history. But as the Magpies now look to go to the next level, and regularly compete for major trophies, they need an upgrade.

Roberto De Zerbi is a better coach but also causes friction, which makes him the polar opposite of Howe. I really like Marco Silva, who will be a free agent this summer, but Andoni Iraola might be the best option. His style of play would chime well with the Geordie fanbase and he’s done a great job at Bournemouth. Newcastle have a better squad and the resources to improve it further. They just need to keep the likes of Lewis Hall and Bruno Guimaraes.

Tottenham and Igor Tudor

Jack McEachen

Absolutely nothing has gone right for Tottenham this season, to the point where there are very few surprised faces that Igor Tudor has found himself in this position after taking over from Thomas Frank.

They are in serious danger of relegation and with a manager at the helm that is taking them in the wrong direction.

Spurs have a squad with bags of talent, relative to their position, and just need the right person to motivate them for the remaining seven matches.

There's a dearth of options. But Ryan Mason could certainly inspire some confidence. I still think Mauricio Pochettino could take a few weeks out of his World Cup preparation to save Spurs, but it seems unlikely.

Archie Griggs

It's genuinely impressive how Tudor has managed to make a pathetic Tottenham side look even worse in only a few short weeks at the helm. He was never the right choice to begin with, which probably says more about how badly the club is run than his own managerial credentials.

It goes without saying that he won't be there at the start of next season and you could even argue that he should be sacked immediately, before he plunges Tottenham even deeper into relegation trouble. That is a decision for the north Londoners to weigh up before the Premier League returns after the international break.

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Who do you get? Maybe Harry Redknapp. Or Ryan Mason. You need someone familiar to just breathe a bit of life and confidence back into these players. Tudor clearly doesn’t do that. It’s a mess. He’s tried a lot, and none of it has worked. It’s crazy he’s lasted this long. No other Premier League club would hire him right now. The same wouldn’t be said about Rob Edwards at Wolves, which says it all.

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Tim Sherwood tells Tottenham he would keep them in Premier League

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Tim Sherwood makes Tottenham vow on live TV in plea for manager's job - Daily Express
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Former Tottenham Hotspur boss Tim Sherwood has revealed how he would approach rescuing Tottenham from the drop in a 'come and get me' appeal to the Spurs hierarchy.

Tottenham are positioned just one point clear of the relegation zone heading into the final international break of the campaign. They suffered a damaging 3-0 home defeat to fellow relegation contenders Nottingham Forest on Sunday, allowing the Reds to overtake Igor Tudor's side in the standings.

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The outcome increases the pressure on the Spurs interim manager, who has failed to secure victory in any of his five Premier League fixtures at the helm of the club, with four of the encounters ending in defeat.

Tudor was absent from the post-match press conference following the loss to Nottingham Forest owing to a family bereavement. It has since been confirmed that he was informed of his father's death in the moments after the full-time whistle.

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Sherwood has now appeared to put himself forward as a potential successor, should the club opt to make a change during the international break.

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Speaking on Sky Sports News, he said: "I don't think it's too late, I would keep them in the Premier League. I believe that someone with common sense keeps them in the Premier League, they have the quality to be able to do it.

"You have to get them feeling good again, you have to get the confidence in the group, and you don't get confidence by playing (Cristian) Romero, if you're Xavi Simons and you're playing Romero as a right winger and Xavi Simons just had his best game in a Tottenham shirt against Atletico Madrid.

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"Xavi must be saying, 'What have I done? You're playing someone out of position in my position where I've just played very well.'

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"Keeping the threats in the team. They have to work hard, they have to still do that, you have to tell them they're his duties, there's dirty work to be done, but (Randal) Kolo Muani played well against Atletico, play him, why's he sitting on the bench?

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"Play the players who have got the threats, but they have to know the work of the team. Dominic Solanke and Richarlison will run all day for you, they will chase lost causes.

"You play a little bit more direct, you come forward together and you go back together, but it needs to be organised.

"You've got (Guglielmo) Vicario in goal, he's not great, he's going to have a hernia operation, (Antonin) Kinsky is going to come in, I don't think he'll let anyone down, but you have to have a nice solid unit in front and they need to be organised.

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"It's not complicated, you drill them every single day, 11 vs 11, so they know exactly where their positions are, and when Micky (Van de Ven), starts dribbling with the ball and mazing around the field, you stop it and you say, 'If you're having to do that and Romero is having to burst forward and try to affect in forward areas, it's because we're not doing something right up there.'

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"Stay in your positions, keep a clean sheet first and foremost, if you can't win a game, don't lose it, keep them organised."

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Spurs captain Cristian Romero's 'stupid' remark amid relegation crisis

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Tottenham captain Cristian Romero's 'stupid' admission as relegation crisis takes new turn - Daily Express
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Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has admitted his team-mates need to stop conceding "stupid" goals in a stark assessment following the Premier League defeat against Nottingham Forest. Igor Tudor's side looked to have turned a corner after drawing 1-1 with Liverpool at Anfield and recording a victory against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

Against Forest, who are also battling relegation, Spurs had an opportunity at home to move away from the drop zone and push one rival closer to it. However, Vitor Pereira's side overwhelmed them in north London. Strikes from Igor Jesus, Morgan Gibbs-White and Taiwo Awoniyi confirmed the defeat. After the match, Romero made his thoughts perfectly clear.

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When questioned about how to account for the display, he told Sky Sports: "Nothing. This season is tough, especially in this moment, another loss at home. The first thing for the fans is thank you for today because they stayed with us. The most important thing for us is the last seven finals.

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"Now, everyone goes to their national teams, and when we're back here [we] understand the situation is tough, but the most important thing is to play games like finals. It's like this, it's very tough and it's [been] a bad season. Honestly, me, the first responsibility. Football is sometimes like this. The most important thing is staying together."

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Spurs approached the fixture with hope after the draw with Liverpool and the victory over Atletico. While the latter made little difference on their Champions League tie, having lost the first-leg 5-2, many thought it would at least give Spurs some momentum.

However, when Tudor's side fell behind, they never looked likely to overturn the scoreline and win their first Premier League match of 2026. Romero was questioned about how Spurs failed to reproduce those performances which saw him lament a persistent issue they have encountered.

He said: "When we played here against Atletico Madrid, fantastic game. The first half [vs Forest] was good but in the second half we lose confidence, lose the ball, concede another stupid goal. This is difficult but now it is finished. It is painful and a bad but the most important thing is go to national team and then back here for seven finals."

The outcome saw Forest overtake Tottenham and climb into 16th place on 32 points with Spurs remaining on 30 and just one ahead of West Ham United following their loss to Aston Villa. Igor Tudor has now presided over five defeats from a possible seven matches, with pressure unquestionably intensifying on his position. He was not available to field any questions about the display or his future following the match due to a family bereavement, with assistant head coach Bruno Saltor taking his place.

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He addressed questions on injuries, Tudor and the performance, but expressed his conviction that Tottenham can reverse their fortunes despite just one victory from their last 16 league fixtures. Saltor said: "I thought for 44 minutes in the first half we were the better team. And again, I think any mistake that we make, any small detail goes against us and we're not able to capitalise on the opposition's mistakes.

"And probably that affected the team. And that's our job as coaches, to keep helping the players. And as you can see, the players, they care and they are 100% trying their best. But at the moment, it's not enough. We need to minimise any mistakes because we know that we're going to concede a goal."

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Igor Tudor pulled from Tottenham press conference due to tragedy

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Igor Tudor pulled from Tottenham press conference after Forest loss due to tragedy - Daily Express
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Igor Tudor did not conduct a press conference following Tottenham's defeat to Nottingham Forest after being informed of an immediate family bereavement. His assistant coach Bruno Saltor took the responsibility following the tragic news.

Saltor noted it was not an appropriate time for the Croatian to speak. "Personal matters, family matters and I am stepping in as it is not right time for him to speak," the ex-Brighton defender said upon speaking to Sky Sports, after Spurs' 3-0 loss at home.

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After a bright start, Tottenham were put to the sword by Vitor Pereira's side. Igor Jesus scored just before half-time before Morgan Gibbs-White and Taiwo Awoniyi secured a pivotal victory in the relegation battle.

"Every mistake right now is going against us, every detail is going against us and it affects the players as well," Saltor continued. "You can see how much they are fighting. We are in a difficult situation, everyone knows.

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"In the first half we were the better team and need to be consistent with that. "We were 1-0 down and wanted to be a little more aggressive with players coming back from injuries. It didn't work as planned but it was our intention.

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"It hurts us, it is painful, really painful, but the fans were outstanding today - from before the game until the end of the game. We need to carry on because we care, we care for Spurs, we are family and want to get out of this situation. I am 100% sure we can get through this situation."

Forest's victory saw them leapfrog Tottenham into 16th position. The Lilywhites remain one point clear of the relegation zone after West Ham lost to Aston Villa.

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Goals from John McGinn and Ollie Watkins at Villa Park helped Unai Emery's side continue their Champions League push, while denying the Irons the chance of escaping the bottom three.

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There are now three weeks until Tottenham play in the Premier League and resume their battle to remain in the division. Tudor's position has long been under scrutiny, with international breaks often proving to be timely opportunities to replace managers.

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The interim boss arrived in north London last month but has won just one match since being appointed. Tottenham defeated Atletico Madrid 3-0 in the Champions League in their previous match but still exited the competition after a first-leg thrashing.

Saltor suggested in his press conference that Spurs' best efforts have not been enough.

"I think any mistake that we make, any small detail goes against us and we're not able to capitalise on the opposition's mistakes. And probably that affected the team," he said.

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"And that's our job as coaches, to keep helping the players. And as you can see, the players, they care and they are 100% trying their best. But at the moment, it's not enough.

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Igor Tudor's latest mistake leaves Tottenham boss totally exposed

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Igor Tudor's latest mistake leaves Tottenham boss totally exposed - he looks desperate - Daily Express
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Igor Tudor is starting to look like a man out of ideas and Tottenham are paying the price.

This latest collapse, a humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, may be the clearest sign yet that the Spurs boss is losing his grip at the worst possible time.

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For 44 minutes, there were signs of life.

Tottenham were organised, competitive and, by their recent standards, actually looked like a team with a plan. The home crowd responded, creating the kind of atmosphere the occasion demanded. Everything pointed towards a side ready to fight.

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Then it all unravelled in an instant.

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Igor Jesus’ header just before half-time was a blow. But what followed was far more damaging.

Tudor panicked.

His starting XI had already raised eyebrows, with Micky van de Ven shunted to left-back, Djed Spence on the right, and Pedro Porro pushed further forward. It was unconventional, arguably unnecessary, but, for a half at least, it worked.

And yet, at the first sign of trouble, Tudor ripped it up.

Van de Ven and Spence were hauled off at half-time, replaced by Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall. Porro dropped back. The system changed. Again.

It was a gamble and it backfired spectacularly.

Tottenham didn’t respond. They collapsed.

Any structure or confidence built in the first half disappeared, and once Morgan Gibbs-White doubled Forest’s lead, the game was effectively over.

This is becoming a worrying pattern.

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Tudor talks about intensity and control, but his in-game decisions tell a different story. One of a manager reacting, not leading. Chasing the game instead of shaping it.

Even when Spurs are on top, one setback is enough to trigger wholesale changes. Systems are abandoned, players shuffled, and any sense of identity disappears.

That kind of instability spreads quickly and right now this Tottenham squad looks like one that no longer knows what it’s supposed to be doing.

We’ve seen it before, too. The triple substitution against Fulham. The constant tactical reshuffles. The lack of consistency from one week to the next.

Nothing is sticking.

With just seven games left, Tottenham are running out of time to save their season. The situation is still recoverable, but only if there is clarity from the touchline.

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Right now, that is nowhere to be seen.

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Tottenham have four emergency options after Forest loss deepens crisis

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Tottenham have four emergency options after Nottingham Forest loss deepens crisis - Daily Express
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Tottenham's odds of Premier League relegation shortened as their winless run stretched to 13 games with a 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest. Igor Jesus' first-half header and goals from Morgan Gibbs-White and Taiwo Awoniyi secured Forest a huge three points to leapfrog Spurs, who drop to 17th. Igor Tudor's team are one point above West Ham, thanks to Aston Villa beating the Hammers at Villa Park, but have not won a domestic match since December 28, when Thomas Frank was still the manager.

Croatian caretaker coach Tudor oversaw a Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid in midweek, following a valuable away draw at Liverpool last weekend. But that progress was wrecked by fellow strugglers Forest, and Spurs were subjected to huge boos at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at full-time. Tudor has now won just one point of an available 15 in the Premier League. Tottenham have four emergency options if they press the panic button on Tudor over the international break...

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Harry Redknapp

He's not been in management since 2017, and it's 14 years since he left Tottenham, but 79-year-old Redknapp is one man who might step into the breach for Spurs' final seven games. Speaking earlier this month at the Cheltenham Festival, the Englishman said: "They know where I am if they need me. They need somebody to go in there and give them a lift and make them believe in themselves.

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"They're bang in trouble, I must be truthful." Redknapp enjoyed a successful spell at Spurs between 2008 and 2012, finishing in the top four in two of his three full seasons at the club.

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Tim Sherwood

Another who has made it clear he'd jump at the chance to return to Spurs. The 57-year-old Sky Sports analyst oversaw 28 games as Spurs boss in the 2013-14 campaign after Andre Villas-Boas was sacked and ended up being axed himself in May of that season.

Sherwood said on Sky Sports: "It's a club I love. I know a lot about it. I spent many years there in different capacities. It needs someone to give them a lift at the moment, whether that's me or whoever." He hasn't managed since 2015, though, so Sherwood would represent a massive gamble despite his connection to the club.

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Ryan Mason

Mason has already had two stints as an interim manager at Spurs before; could he do a third? Sacked by West Brom in January, the former midfielder has been unemployed since. He stepped up after both Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte were sacked in April 2021 and April 2023, respectively.

Mason won six of his 13 matches in charge, also losing six, across those two stints. With his reputation having been damaged by his failed 27-match spell at the Hawthorns, the 34-year-old would surely welcome a chance to coach in the Premier League again. Saving Spurs would be great for his CV.

Sean Dyche

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Dyche lasted only 25 games at Nottingham Forest before being sacked in February, but he represents another 'break glass in case of emergency' option. A pragmatic coach with a reputation for coaching hard-working teams who are hard to beat, Dyche's style might not be popular at Spurs.

But if he was willing to accept another Premier League opportunity, which are likely to be limited elsewhere after being axed by Everton last year and Forest this year, he might be able to scrape Spurs a few draws and victories. However, reports earlier this month suggested the 54-year-old would be reluctant to go into the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

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Spurs set to complete £17m transfer as meeting held before Atletico

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Tottenham set to complete £17m transfer as meeting held before Atletico Madrid clash - Daily Express
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Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is reportedly set to join Inter Milan this summer.

The Serie A team have been scouting for a successor to Yann Sommer, 37, who is anticipated to depart Inter when his contract expires in June, and sporting director Piero Ausilio was in London for discussions earlier this week.

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Ausilio met with Vicario's agent Valerio Giufridda on Wednesday prior to Tottenham's Champions League round of 16 second leg match against Atletico Madrid, and Inter are optimistic about finalising a deal for £17million, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Vicario, 29, was in goal for the game against Atletico and pulled off several impressive saves as Spurs won 3-2 on the night. However, it wasn't enough to reverse the three-goal shortfall from the first leg as Igor Tudor's squad were eliminated from the tournament.

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A 5-2 loss at the Wanda Metropolitano last week inflicted the damage, with Tudor opting to start Antonin Kinsky before substituting him for Vicario in the 17th minute.

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Vicario has been at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium since 2023 following his £17m transfer from Empoli. He made a promising start to his tenure in north London until rivals identified his difficulty handling high balls, after which he committed several errors with his footwork.

He was a crucial member of Ange Postecoglou's team before sustaining a broken ankle in a 4-0 victory at Manchester City in November 2024, which sidelined him for three months. However, Vicario made a comeback to aid Spurs in clinching the Europa League, with the former Cagliari player maintaining a clean sheet in the final against Manchester United.

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Although Vicario still has over two years remaining on his Tottenham contract, it seems there is a mutual agreement that it would be best for both parties to part ways come summer.

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Should he sign for Inter, Vicario will return to playing Champions League football, with the San Siro club currently six points ahead at the top of the Serie A table and targeting their 21st Scudetto and a second in three years.

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Despite the rumours surrounding Vicario's future, his and Tottenham's immediate focus is on Sunday's vital Premier League match against Nottingham Forest. Spurs are entangled in a relegation battle, with Tudor's side sitting 16th, just one point and one position above Forest in the top flight.

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Tottenham set for financial windfall that continues to rise thanks to savvy clause

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Tottenham set for financial windfall that continues to rise thanks to savvy clause - Daily Express
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Tottenham could receive a financial windfall if former striker Troy Parrott completes a £25million transfer to AC Milan this summer. The 24-year-old is currently enjoying an outstanding season with AZ Alkmaar in the Dutch top division.

Parrott has flourished since leaving the north London club in 2024, scoring 20 goals for AZ across all competitions last term. He has managed to surpass that tally this season, recording 28 goals and 10 assists in 40 appearances. The Republic of Ireland international's impressive form and consistency has understandably attracted interest from clubs across Europe, including Real Betis, Wolfsburg, Fulham and now AC Milan.

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The Independent reports Parrott is eager to progress to the next stage of his career, while AZ are willing to cash in on their prolific frontman. Milan are monitoring his form while in pursuit of a forward to recruit this summer, with the £25m-valued Parrott being among the players on their radar.

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Any potential transfer to Serie A in that price bracket would prove beneficial for his previous club Spurs, given the Lilywhites negotiated a 20 per cent sell-on clause when agreeing Parrott's move to AZ while Daniel Levy was in charge. The £5m they are set to receive is already an improvement on the sum they would have got if Parrott had made a move in January, given his £17m valuation earlier in the season.

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Parrott was seen as a promising prospect during his time in N17 but only made four first-team appearances, having been loaned out five times. His last loan stint as a Spurs player was with Dutch side Excelsior, during which his displays attracted the interest of AZ Alkmaar.

Parrott was sold to AZ for £6.7m in July 2024. Then-manager Ange Postecoglou justified the move by stating competition for places, particularly following Dominic Solanke's arrival, would have restricted Parrott's opportunities for a first-team breakthrough.

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Spurs will be pleased to see their former prospect thriving, especially as they could potentially pocket £5m this summer based on his current valuation. The club did not negotiate a buyback clause in his contract when he left, indicating they won't compete with Milan for his services.

Parrott faced his old side last season in the Europa League, as Spurs beat AZ 3-2 across the two last-16 legs and went on to lift the trophy. He explained last month that he wasn’t thinking about his future much, though his camp have understandably been exploring options beyond the Eredivisie to further his career.

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