Tottenham's top four hopes are in the balance as they prepare to face rivals Manchester United in a huge clash. The Lilywhites currently sit fifth, six points off of the Red Devils in fourth but with two games extra played, putting them in a precarious situation.
Their hopes of Champions League football took a hit at the weekend after an embarrassing 6-1 defeat to Newcastle at St. James' Park. The away side quickly found themselves 5-0 down after just 20 minutes as the Spurs players were at sea in the opening stages of the match.
As a result, interim manager Cristian Stellini was relieved of his duties along with his coaching staff, leaving Ryan Mason as the new interim in charge for the rest of the campaign. "Sunday's performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable," a club statement from chairman Daniel Levy reads.
READ MORE: Daniel Levy statement in full as Ryan Mason replaces Cristian Stellini as Tottenham head coach
"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. Cristian will leave his current role along with his coaching staff.
"Cristian stepped in at a difficult point in our season and I want to thank him for the professional manner in which he and his coaching staff have conducted themselves during such a challenging time. We wish him and his staff well."
The United clash may represent a last chance for Mason and his squad to make a push for the top four this season, with time running out. One of the key things that may be in the interim manager's favour though is the injury situation as it worsens for their rivals United.
With first choice centre-back pairing Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez set to miss the clash, there's also concern for Bruno Fernandes after he played through injury against Brighton in the FA Cup semi-final. The Portugal international was eventually withdrawn from the match.
The side were handed a worrying update over their playmaker as Fernandes' wife posted a picture on Instagram that showed the star wearing a cast and a protective boot on his right foot, which was clearly elevated. It remains to be seen if he will be available for the clash in midweek, but it now seems highly unlikely.
READ NEXT:
Cristian Stellini sacked as Tottenham acting head coach after Newcastle humiliation
Next Tottenham manager LIVE: Levy statement, Stellini sacked, Mason in charge, Nagelsmann latest
Daniel Levy statement in full as Ryan Mason replaces Cristian Stellini as Tottenham head coach
Tottenham fans send blunt and angry message to Daniel Levy after Cristian Stellini exit
Daniel Levy's five-word statement that Tottenham supporters have been waiting years to hear
