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‘Scandalous, shocking’ incident in Tottenham defeat vs PSG outrages Ally McCoist

Tottenham’s defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup wasn’t without its flashpoints on Wednesday night.

Thomas Frank will have been happy with how Spurs performed in Udine, Italy, until their hopes of a second piece of silverware in three months were dashed by a late PSG comeback.

Defenders Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero were both on the scoresheet either side of half-time to give Tottenham a commanding lead.

PSG substitute Lee Kang-in then netted in the 85th minute before Goncalo Ramos bagged in the fourth minute of stoppage time at the end of the game.

In the penalty shoot-out, Tottenham again held a two-goal lead when Vitinha missed his opening spot-kick. However, misses from Van de Ven and Mathys Tel opened the door for PSG to win their first ever Super Cup title.

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Ally McCoist blasts PSG defence

Romero, 27, has spent most of the summer being linked with Atletico Madrid.

Not many would have expected to see Romero lining up against PSG in the Super Cup wearing the captain’s armband – and he was almost the man to score the title-winning goal at Stadio Friuli.

PSG didn’t half make it easy for Romero to score with their lax defending at Pedro Porro’s free-kick.

Porro was able to get the ball over to a completely unmarked Romero at PSG’s backpost, with the Spurs star going on to prod a header past Lucas Chevalier in goal.

Scottish football pundit Ally McCoist was in utter disbelief about the way PSG’s defence failed to pick up Romero, while also criticising Chevalier’s attempt at keeping the ball out of his net.

“Brilliant movement from [Romero] – but it’s shocking defending. They’ve not picked him up,” said McCoist on TNT Sports 1 after Romero’s goal on Wednesday night.

“It’s scandalous, to tell you the truth, but take nothing away from the move.

“I said to you, they’ll play it into the back-post area and that’s exactly what [Porro] did.

“The goalkeeper’s got to do a lot better but look at the space Romero’s got. He doesn’t stand there, he gets there.

“I can’t believe he’s got that much space. He just drifts to a back-post area – you could see it happening.

“He times his header very, very well and the goalkeeper, I think, should do a lot better.”

How much money do Spurs win despite Super Cup loss?

Well, there’s good news for Daniel Levy.

Winning the Europa League last season meant that no matter the outcome against PSG, Spurs were guaranteed to pick up £3.4million.

PSG, however, have bagged £4.3million from their victory against Tottenham.

Every little helps for a thrifty chairman like Levy.

But there’s no doubt that the Tottenham chief will have had his eyes laser-focused on a second piece of silverware this year and that extra £900,000.

Tottenham entered their UEFA Super Cup clash against PSG as major underdogs, yet for most of the game, they made the Champions League winners look bang average.

In Thomas Frank’s first competitive game in charge, Tottenham were impressive against PSG, racing into a two-goal lead thanks to strikes from Micky Van de Ven and Cristian Romero.

Spurs were in the ascendancy for the majority of the contest before the French giants produced a late fightback. Kang-in Lee’s stunning strike halved the deficit before Goncalo Ramos equalised in the 94th minute to take the game to penalties.

Sadly, Tottenham lost on penalties to PSG and supporters were left devastated by the outcome, yet one player received huge plaudits.

Tottenham fans were impressed with Richarlison vs PSG

The arrival of Frank has presented the opportunity for every player to have a clean slate, and someone thankful for a second chance at Tottenham is Richarlison.

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The 28-year-old suffered an injury-hit 2024/25 campaign that restricted him to just four Premier League starts under Ange Postecoglou.

Unfortunately, since completing his transfer to Tottenham in 2022, the Brazilian has struggled to live up to his whopping £60million price tag.

Richarlison has been linked with an exit this summer, but as Spurs are light on forward options, the former Everton man looks set to stay.

On Wednesday night, he was given the nod ahead of the returning Dominic Solanke against PSG, and the striker produced arguably one of his best performances in a Tottenham shirt.

Reacting to his performance via X, one supporter wrote: “I take back everything I’ve ever said about Richarlison, he’s been on fire today.”

“Richarlison is having an all timer. He bleeds blue and white. What a player!” someone else exclaimed.

“Richarlison has been brilliant,” another said.

“Aside from the CBs, but Spence, Sarr and Richarlison have been absolutely fantastic tonight,” one fan replied while a sixth commented: “People won’t notice, but Richarlison has been brilliant.”

“Kudus and Richarlison have been good so far,” a seventh said.

Richarlison’s stats vs PSG

Richarlison led the line superbly alongside Mohammed Kudus, setting the tone with his incredible pressing and work rate.

The Brazilian was also excellent at linking play, dropping deep to receive possession, but also offering an outlet in behind.

Richarlison’s stats vs PSG

It was a display that has been few and far between since completing his move to Spurs, with the above statistics painting a picture of his positive influence.

If Richarlison can carry this form into the Premier League, he will offer the perfect support for Solanke in attack.

Tottenham locked horns with PSG in the UEFA Super Cup, but it wasn’t just matters on the pitch that stole the headlines.

Tottenham faced the daunting task of overcoming Champions League winners PSG in the UEFA Super Cup.

Daniel Levy wasn’t in attendance for the match as he was present in the United States due to his daughter starting university.

Levy has been scrutinised throughout his time as Spurs chairman, especially during this summer transfer window, where Thomas Frank has had to wait patiently for incomings.

Fabio Paratici spotted in conversation with Johan Lange

Earlier in the window, Spurs confirmed the signing of Mohammed Kudus, along with the additions of Mathys Tel, Kevin Danso, Luka Vuskovic, Kota Takai, and Joao Palhinha on loan.

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But following James Maddison’s ACL injury, Tottenham have entered the market for extra attacking depth, most notably on the wing and centrally.

Tottenham are lining up a second approach for Savinho; meanwhile, the Lilywhites are also in talks with Crystal Palace over the pursuit of Eberechi Eze.

So, during the Super Cup clash in Udine, there was no surprise that Fabio Paratici was spotted in an ‘extensive pre-game chat’ with technical director Johan Lange.

Tottenham have until Friday (14 August) to sign Eberechi Eze for his £68 million release, and he appears to be their number one target to replace Maddison.

How Tottenham can have a successful window

After a disappointing 2024/25 league campaign, Spurs will be hopeful of a much-improved 2025/26 season if they can invest in the correct positions.

Spurs’ signings so far:

The addition of Savinho to offer them quality in wide areas would be superb, while successfully capturing Eze would be a real statement of intent.

Tottenham are hoping to challenge for Europe in 2025/26 and those two signings would play a major role.

Here’s why Daniel Levy is in USA instead of attending Tottenham v PSG in UEFA Super Cup

Daniel Levy has not been a popular figure at Tottenham over the years and he may be about to anger fans once again.

The Lilywhites chairman has gained a reputation for being stingy with his cash, and that has resulted in the club missing out on several key transfer targets over the years.

Levy has seemed intent on backing Thomas Frank this summer, as he aims to vindicate his decision to sack Ange Postecoglou.

Levy misses UEFA Super Cup final to help his daughter at university

Thomas Frank’s first competitive assignment at Spurs is the daunting prospect of a clash with PSG in the UEFA Super Cup.

The French giants dismantled Inter Milan in the Champions League final back in May, and are undoubtedly one of he most fearsome prospects in world football at the moment.

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The new boss will be desperate to get off to a good start with the N17 outfit, and he would surely have valued the support of the chairman at the game.

However, Levy is not in attendance for Spurs’ latest European final.

The 62-year-old’s absence is understood to be due to his daughter starting university in the USA, according to Alasdair Gold via X.

The Tottenham chief is currently stateside with the rest of his family and has been forced to miss the game as a result.

Frank will be frustrated by Levy’s absence for Tottenham final

Frank will understandably be a little miffed by Levy’s inability to attend his first competitive outing in the dugout for Spurs.

The Dane was personally selected by the chairman to take charge at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and he will be well aware of the pressure that he is under to begin to turn around one of the country’s most prestigious clubs.

He has largely had the support of Levy when it comes to doing transfer business in the summer, but the pair will once again be tested now that replacements are needed for both Son Heung-min and James Maddison.

If Levy cannot secure top-quality cover in the final few weeks of the transfer window, then Frank will arguably find himself on the back foot before his time at Spurs has even properly begun.

He will need to operate as a tandem with Levy, and with that in mind, he has every right to be a bit frustrated by his chairman’s no-show in Udine.

Tottenham have been pushing to secure the signing of Savinho in recent days.

The Lilywhites are in search of a new winger following Son Heung-min’s departure, and they have identified the Manchester City star as a possible option in the final few weeks of the window.

Tottenham have already made an approach to sign Savinho, but they have been unsuccessful in their attempts to lure their Premier League rivals into a sale.

However, Thomas Frank’s side don’t appear to have been put off at all by the early indications that they have received from the Etihad Stadium.

Tottenham ready second Savinho approach as City to eye Rodrygo

Spurs have already been knocked back over Savinho in recent days, as City are reluctant to allow him to leave for a free below the £50million mark.

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The 21-year-old made 48 appearances in his debut campaign for Pep Guardiola’s side last term, and is expected to have a big future ahead of him as he continues to develop.

Tottenham are still keen to pursue a deal, and they are believed to be preparing a second approach for the wideman, according to the Daily Mail.

Savinho is thought to be uncertain about his future in Manchester, as there is plenty of competition in the wide areas for City.

That could tempt Daniel Levy and Co. to pounce and secure a deal, and that would see their rivals spring into transfer action of their own.

Khaldoon Al Mubarak is thought to have promised an aggressive stance in the transfer market this summer, and his side are understood to be eyeing up a move for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo if they do opt to do business with Spurs.

Savinho would be a good investment for Spurs

Spurs have placed a lot of emphasis on signing young players within the last few transfer windows, and Savinho would certainly be a sensible investment for them.

They have lost a key player in Son, and they need someone who has the potential to become a real figurehead for their project to replace him, and the City star is definitely capable.

His final tally of eight Premier League assists represented a bright start to life in English football in 2024/25, and he will surely be hoping to kick on and become even more of a creative threat in the next few seasons.

Tottenham could be about to strike a rapid deal to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

The attacking midfielder has been a central part of the Eagles’ recent resurgence as a club, and he netted the winner in the FA Cup Final back in May to help them win their first-ever major trophy.

Spurs have already made contact over Eze, with the North Londoners going on the offensive to try and secure the signature of the exciting 27-year-old.

Thomas Frank’s side have been dealt a major blow by the recent injury to James Maddison, but they could now be about to secure the perfect replacement for their sidelined star.

This article includes exclusive comment from former Tottenham scout Bryan King.

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Tottenham to seal £68m Eze deal before release clause expires on Friday

Tottenham’s pursuit of Eze has a huge sense of urgency attached to it, as the former QPR man is understood to have a £68million release clause within his contract, which is due to expire imminently.

It is believed that the clause only has until Friday left to run, which means that after that point, Palace will have much more of a say as to the fee that they will demand for the England international.

Spurs have missed out on several big-money targets already this summer, but the key for them here will be to act quickly and decisively as they aim to move towards an agreement.

Ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that there is little reason that would prevent the Lilywhites from beating the clock to trigger that clause within Eze’s contract.

“Why shouldn’t there be enough time to get it done before Friday?” King said.

“If you want the player, go in with the offer, and I would imagine if this has been in the pipeline, Spurs will have already spoken to his agent.

“Personally, I think that would be a very good price for a player of that quality.

“For £68m, you’re talking a player here who, if there was no clause, you’d be looking at anywhere between £80m and £90m.

“I would say a deal could be on, and I couldn’t see any problems. The only thing that would be a stumbling block is if Palace told him to wait until Friday and up the asking price.”

Eze would be a superb replacement for Maddison

Maddison’s injury has made a clear priority for Tottenham, as it goes without saying that a player of that quality must be replaced.

In Eze, the N17 outfit may have already found the perfect man for the job.

He has arguably become one of the Premier League’s finest playmakers in recent years, and brings a huge threat both in terms of goals and assists.

The Palace man is ahead of Maddison in the England reckoning, and for good reason. It is even not out of the question to suggest that he would be an upgrade on the injured star.

Daniel Levy has come in for plenty of criticism for the way he has operated in the transfer market, but if he could get this deal done, he would be due an abundance of praise.

Ange Postecoglou is the gift who keeps on giving at Tottenham.

Some Spurs supporters would agree that the manner Postecoglou left Tottenham was uncalled for.

One of the most successful managers of the modern era, forced to watch another build on the foundation he set. The Australian is still without his next challenge. However, it is believed that Postecoglou could be waiting for an offer too good to refuse.

Season three may have been cancelled, but in true Postecoglou fashion, he’s still making an impact.

Tottenham to make at least £3.4million from UEFA Super Cup

Tottenham will take on Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup final on Wednesday, 13 August at the Stadio Friuli stadium.

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This comes after Postecoglou guided the Lilywhites to a UEFA Europa League final victory against all odds. Fans were singing the Australian’s praises at the time, but will now need to shout a little louder.

As reported by BBC Sport on 12 August, the winner of the Super Cup will receive £4.3million while the runners-up get £3.4m.

While it does not seem like much on the surface, a little goes a long way and could be the difference in the market. Indeed, Tottenham want to sign Eberechi Eze and Savinho, who could both cost a large fee.

As a result, Daniel Levy will be grateful for any financial boost which could ease his troubles. Thus, even if the Tottenham chairman doesn’t want to admit it, the club could be better off thanks to Postecoglou.

Thomas Frank can beat PSG

Thomas Frank knows what he needs to do to get the better of PSG thanks to Chelsea’s performance in the FIFA Club World Cup final.

The London team shocked spectators when they put three past Gianluigi Donnarumma without reply.

This crushing defeat left teams around Europe with some helpful tips on how to beat PSG.

Break down PSG, and Frank could end up surprising a few on Wednesday just like Postecoglou once did.

Eberechi Eze may sign for Tottenham after failed Crystal Palace UEFA appeal

Tottenham are still in the market for some blockbuster new transfers ahead of the Premier League season.

Spurs have made contact over a move for Eberechi Eze, with talks taking place between Crystal Palace and the Lilywhites.

Furthermore, Daniel Levy has made a £50million approach for Savinho, leaving Manchester City with a decision to make over the Brazilian.

Both moves would cost a substantial figure for the Lilywhites, meaning Levy is looking to back Thomas Frank even more.

Crystal Palace’s failed appeal at CAS over their Conference League demotion could also play a part.

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This article includes exclusive comments from Dr Dan Plumley for Tottenham News

Tottenham to decide on Eze and Savinho

The injury suffered by James Maddison in Tottenham’s pre-season means that Spurs need to strengthen further, especially after the sale of Son Heung-min.

Now, football finance expert Dan Plumley – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – has weighed in on their interest in Eze and Savinho, with Palace’s UEFA struggles coming into play.

“If you look at it in terms of proven in the Premier League and in English football more broadly, then Eze would perhaps tick that more than Savinho,” he said.

“It’s probably unlikely we see both, that’d be a huge outlay, so you’re weighing that up in your mind as to whether or not it’s worth the extra to go and try and get Eze.

“The other angle to that is the selling club, and it’s probably easier for you to get Savinho rather than Eze.

“As an example, we know Palace won’t be desperate to sell, but with them now confirmed as being in the Conference League, having lost their appeal, that’s another added factor to it, which could swing it in Tottenham’s favor because you’re offering a player Champions League football versus Conference League.

“We know what the player would prefer to play in.

“Those are the things that you’re weighing up in the background, but certainly if you look at proven in the Premier League, you might feel that you can stretch to that extra price tag.

“And again, as I’ve always said with Spurs, it’s ultimately on Daniel Levy and what they want to pay because if you’re talking about one of these players coming in, if it’s £50 million or £68m for Spurs, it’s not that huge an issue in in the way they operate and the way the transfer fees will be structured anyway.

“So it really will come down to who they want and how hard they are prepared to go to get that player.”

Eze can propel Spurs up the Premier League

Players of Eze’s quality are hard to come by, and it will take a seismic figure for Crystal Palace to let him go, if his release clause has expired, with differing reports everywhere.

Over the years, he has developed into one of the most creative players in the Premier League, with a keen eye for goal.

If Tottenham were to land him, then the 27-year-old would be a massive upgrade on what Frank currently has within his midfield.

Eze is at the top of his game, and Spurs would make a real statement if they could beat Arsenal to his signature after he lifted the FA Cup and Community Shield.

While he will not come cheap, the North Londoners and Levy should do all they can to strike a deal with the Eagles.

Mauricio Pochettino’s failure could have decided Tottenham’s fate in the UEFA Super Cup final.

Tottenham take on PSG in the Super Cup final on Wednesday, 13 August, after lifting the UEFA Europa League.

Before Ange Postecoglou led the Lilywhites to silverware, Pochettino came close. Spurs made it to their first UEFA Champions League final under the Argentine in 2019, but watched on depleted as Liverpool lifted the trophy on the night.

Still, Tottenham fans look back fondly at the period with Pochettino at the helm. However, one little failure under the former manager could now come back to haunt the London club.

Tottenham almost signed Ousmane Dembele

Ousmane Dembele was touted for greatness when he first burst onto the scene at Stade Rennais in 2015.

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The following season, clubs around Europe were fighting for his signature, and Tottenham almost led the line. According to a report from France Football at the time, the Lilywhites discussed signing the forward.

Bayern Munich and Barcelona were also in the running, but the Frenchman chose to continue progressing at Borussia Dortmund.

But now, a UEFA Champions League and a quadruple later, the one who got away returns in what could be a nightmare for Tottenham. The French forward was essential for PSG’s win in Europe and will be looking to seal the Ballon d’Or with a victory on Wednesday.

Tottenham fans have long-awaited Pochettino’s return to the club. But many could not imagine that it could be his failure that reunites him with Spurs first.

Dembele could make the difference against Tottenham

Dembele’s career before he signed with PSG was almost a laughing matter.

Plagued with injuries, the forward never seemed to find the form that once shone at Dortmund.

But now a Champions League winner and UEFA Champions League Player of the Season, the winger will likely make things difficult for Spurs.

Dembele was the Parisians’ leading man in Europe last season, from his relentless press to his goal contributions. Most of their attacks start and end with the Frenchman, and he’s notoriously difficult to keep quiet across the full 90 minutes.

Guglielmo Vicario, who is expected to start, has a huge job ahead, as keeping him silent could be the difference between another win and Spurs going back to their trophyless ways on Wednesday.

Tottenham are reportedly keen on securing the services of former Fulham and Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic this summer.

The 30-year-old is currently at Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal, and he has another year left on his contract there.

Mitrovic left Fulham in 2023 and has been one of the top attacking players in the Middle East.

This article includes exclusive opinion from injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist.

Mitrovic to clear medical despite hamstring injury last season

Even though Mitrovic missed nearly two months last season with a hamstring injury, Dr Rajpal Brar expects him to clear his medical.

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The Serbian also suffered a calf injury recently, but that is not understood to be as serious.

Tottenham are eyeing Mitrovic as Thomas Frank is keen on signing a new striker in this transfer window, as reported by Caught Offside on 27 July.

Speaking about the 30-year-old’s fitness and potential transfer, Dr Brar told Tottenham News: “Spurs may want to take a look at his hamstring injury, as he missed a number of games because of it last season.

“That being said, post his return, he played regularly and for most of the games, featured the full 90 minutes.

“I expect him to clear his medical if he is to seal a move this summer, provided he’s recovered from the calf injury a few months back.”

Tottenham do not need to sign Mitrovic this summer

Signing Mitrovic for Tottenham would be a questionable move given his age and playing style. At 30, Mitrovic offers short-term goal-scoring prowess but lacks the versatility to fit Frank’s system.

His high wages from his contract in Saudi Arabia and limited long-term upside clash with Tottenham’s youth-focused recruitment under Daniel Levy, who prioritises high-potential players like Mohammed Kudus or Mathys Tel.

Investing in a younger forward aligns better with building a sustainable squad for Champions League ambitions.

Tottenham’s current attacking options provide enough flexibility, making an out-and-out striker like Mitrovic unnecessary.