Tottenham Hotspur’s Premier League season has been labelled as “pathetic” by Gary Neville, despite the club securing their status on the final day with a 1-0 victory over Everton. Spurs finished just two points above West Ham, who were relegated along with Wolves and Burnley. Neville has criticised the club’s ownership and called for a comprehensive review of what has gone wrong.
Neville’s scathing assessment
Gary Neville didn’t hold back in his assessment of Tottenham’s season. He questioned whether it was too far to say that they’ve been pathetic and should be ashamed of themselves. He highlighted the club’s traditions and history, stating that this is another level of underachievement.
Neville acknowledged Tottenham’s Europa League triumph last year, but pointed to a history of underachievement. He emphasized the need for major surgery to return Tottenham to the top end of English football. He noted that the fans were celebrating survival, but questioned whether all the players truly wanted to be at the club.
“Is it too far to say that they’ve been pathetic? That they should be ashamed of themselves? Probably not,” said the Sky Sports pundit.
De Zerbi’s overhaul plans
Roberto De Zerbi faces the challenge of rebuilding the Tottenham squad. Neville believes De Zerbi will need to assess which players are committed to the club’s future. He will likely need to make tough decisions to create a cohesive and competitive team.
Neville highlighted Tottenham’s poor form, noting they hadn’t won a game at home since Christmas. He described the team as flimsy, weak, and vulnerable. He believes the club needs to “drive a bulldozer through that dressing room”.
Neville also questioned the connection throughout the club, suggesting the owners have been trying to sell for several years. While acknowledging their infrastructure achievements, he criticised their failure to deliver on-pitch success for the fans.
The need for action
Neville stressed the importance of actions over words. He questioned whether the players dare to live up to the club’s motto, “To dare is to do”. He raised concerns about the team’s unity and the overall connection within the club.
The coming transfer window will be crucial for Tottenham as they look to rebuild and address the issues highlighted by Neville. The club needs to make significant changes to avoid another season of underachievement and discontent.
For the second season in a row Spurs have finished 17th in the table. But while last year came with the bonus of a Europa League triumph, Spurs supporters have endured a miserable campaign this time around.