Daniel Levy has taken responsibility for Tottenham's demise this season after the chairman chose to dismiss caretaker boss Cristian Stellini from his position following the 6-1 defeat to Newcastle on Sunday. Stellini only managed four games with just the one win coming.
Having replaced Antonio Conte in charge, the former assistant was only acting as a placeholder ahead of a permanent appointment but back-to-back losses and nine goals conceded in the space of a week meant it was a step too far.
In a statement, Levy said of the nadir: "Sunday’s performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable. It was devastating to see. We can look at many reasons why it happened and whilst myself, the Board, the coaches and players must all take collective responsibility, ultimately the responsibility is mine."
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It is acceptance and an admission not often made by Levy, who has been criticised for consistent poor decisions in the past four years. Ryan Mason, who is the new caretaker tasked with overturning a horrific season for Spurs, will become the sixth different man (and seventh boss) to be in charge since 2019.
After getting rid of Conte in the international break it was greeted with surprise when his assistant and close confidant was kept on by the club. That has since been addressed though with even Stellini's position becoming untenable.
Tottenham conceded five goals in 20 minutes at St James' Park in an act that not only embarrassed the travelling away fans and players but also dealt the side's chances of finishing in the top four a huge blow. Spurs are now six points behind Manchester United and Newcastle in fourth and third respectively having played more than both sides.
Spurs face United in a crucial top four battle on Thursday and it is a game in north London that is expected to bring with it a swathe of hostility towards Levy and the senior members at the club despite his statement accepting the blame.
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