The defeat was not only a reflection of the team’s approach, attitude, and ability, but it also jeopardized their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
The week ahead could hold even more painful experiences for the Spurs
The recent emergency alarm test in the UK pales compared to the real crisis faced by Tottenham Hotspur after their shocking defeat at the hands of Newcastle United. The defeat was not only a reflection of the team’s approach, attitude, and ability, but it also jeopardized their chances of qualifying for the Champions League. The loss against Bournemouth was bad, but this defeat was worse, and the week ahead could hold even more painful experiences for Spurs. With Manchester United visiting Tottenham on Thursday and a trip to Anfield scheduled for the weekend, the team could slide even further down the table by the end of next Sunday.
Instead of looking up at the six-point gap between them and the top four, Tottenham should be worried about the teams behind them. Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Brighton are all within striking distance, with Liverpool and Brighton currently having games in hand that could lift them above Tottenham’s current points total. The possibility of finishing eighth and missing out on European football altogether cannot be ruled out, especially considering the team’s lack of fight and organization on display at St James’ Park.
The blame cannot be placed solely on Stellini
The decision to change the system backfired spectacularly for Tottenham’s assistant coach, Cristian Stellini. The players on the pitch appeared to give up as they struggled to defend adequately in a five and failed to adapt to the new system. The blame cannot be placed solely on Stellini, as Tottenham’s chairman, Daniel Levy, is ultimately responsible for the team’s current situation. Spurs have been without a proper manager for a full month after Antonio Conte’s sacking and still lack a director of football following Fabio Paratici’s exit. Levy must accelerate the process of appointing a permanent manager, but after the Newcastle defeat, prospective candidates may be hesitant to take on the challenge. It is unlikely that Tottenham can salvage a top-four finish this season, and the chairman must take responsibility for the mess he has made.
In contrast to Tottenham’s struggles, Eddie Howe has raised expectations at Newcastle United, and his team’s recent performance was a testament to that. Despite criticism following a five-game winning streak ending in a 3-0 defeat at Aston Villa, Howe has his team bouncing and believing. The energy and momentum running through the team were almost tangible as they overwhelmed Tottenham with their speed, aggression, and attacking intent.
Newcastle’s electric home support can be a game-changer
Newcastle is now in a strong position to deliver a top-four finish and Champions League football well ahead of schedule. With Arsenal and Brighton featuring in their run-in, both teams have to come to St James’ Park, where Newcastle’s electric home support can be a game-changer. Howe has produced one of the best managerial performances of the season, from improving individuals to the team’s cohesion and spirit. It feels like they are charging towards their prize at the end of it all now.
In conclusion, Tottenham’s crisis is very real, and their complete capitulation at Newcastle is one of the most jaw-dropping moments in Premier League history. The team’s lack of fight, organization, and confidence on display was a terrible reflection of their current situation. Meanwhile, Newcastle United has exceeded expectations under Eddie Howe’s management and looks set to achieve their goal of a top-four finish and Champions League football. The spotlight falls on Tottenham’s chairman, Daniel Levy, who must take responsibility for the mess he has made and accelerate the process of appointing a permanent manager.