Here’s a harsh reality Tottenham Hotspur fans might not want to hear: the dreaded R-word—relegation—is looming larger than ever. While head coach Thomas Frank avoids uttering it, the numbers don’t lie. Over the past 38 games, only Wolves have a worse record than Spurs in the Premier League. And with captain Cristian Romero suspended for four matches, their already precarious situation could spiral further downward. But here’s where it gets controversial: could Spurs’ lack of salary-reduction clauses in player contracts for relegation scenarios come back to haunt them? Let’s dive in.
Tottenham, a club that has rarely flirted with relegation in the Premier League era, seems to have overlooked this contractual safeguard. According to Telegraph Football News Correspondent Matt Law—who’s covered the club extensively for over a decade—ex-staff members confirm that such clauses were absent during Daniel Levy’s chairmanship. While the club doesn’t comment on contract specifics, sources suggest this policy likely persists. However, missing out on European qualification would still reduce the wage bill, as bonuses would no longer apply.
Historically, Spurs have only faced genuine relegation threats twice in recent memory: in 2004 under interim manager David Pleat and in 2008 before Juande Ramos’s sacking. The last time they truly fought for survival was in 1994, securing safety with a win at Oldham Athletic. Even last season, despite finishing 17th, they were never in serious danger—Leicester City, relegated in 18th, had five fewer points than Spurs after 25 games.
Fast forward to this season, and the picture is far bleaker. Under Frank, Tottenham has just 29 points after 25 games—one fewer than last season. Meanwhile, West Ham, currently in the final relegation spot, has 23 points but has won three of their last four matches. During a recent press conference, Frank was grilled about relegation nine times, reluctantly acknowledging the situation has become “desperate.” Yet, he remains focused on the next game, Newcastle United, as a potential turning point.
And this is the part most people miss: while Fulham and Manchester United survived with 29 points after 25 games in recent years, Spurs’ overall form is alarming. Over the past 38 games, they’ve amassed just 37 points—second-worst only to Wolves. Frank admits, “It’s definitely too few points for a club of our stature,” but insists the players’ effort hasn’t wavered. Still, the question lingers: is Frank the right man to steer the ship, or should Spurs turn to a familiar face like Mauricio Pochettino?
Pochettino, a fan favorite who transformed Spurs into title contenders, recently claimed the club should be aiming for Champions League and Premier League glory. Many supporters would welcome his return, and Frank himself acknowledges Pochettino’s legacy, calling him a “true legend.” If fans chant Pochettino’s name during the Newcastle match, Frank believes it would be “well deserved.”
So, here’s the burning question for you: Is relegation a real threat for Tottenham, or can Frank turn things around? And should Spurs consider bringing back Pochettino to restore their former glory? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
