Ex-PGMOL chief: West Ham player should have been sent off v Tottenham
Another week, another disappointing result for Tottenham Hotspur as their Premier League struggles persisted with a 1-1 draw against West Ham United at the London Stadium.
While Ange Postecoglou rotated his squad with Thursday’s crucial Europa League semi-final second leg against Bodo/Glimt in mind, the performance once again raised questions about Spurs’ consistency and mentality when it matters most.
Wilson Odobert’s composed finish gave Tottenham an early lead, offering brief hope that they might finally turn potential into three points. But Jarrod Bowen’s equalizer just before halftime capitalizing on yet another defensive lapse extended Spurs’ miserable league run to just one point from their last four matches.
The result leaves them languishing in 16th position, a sobering reality for a club with aspirations of challenging for European places.
The match wasn’t without controversy as West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus escaped what many believed should have been a second yellow card for a dangerous challenge on Djed Spence.
The Ghanaian, already booked, backed into Spence while the Tottenham defender was airborne, causing him to land awkwardly. While referee Michael Oliver waved play on, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett didn’t mince words when analyzing the incident.
“That was reckless at best,” Hackett stated. “When a player leaves the ground like that, any unnecessary contact becomes dangerous. Kudus can consider himself extremely fortunate to have stayed on the pitch.”
The non-call proved pivotal, allowing West Ham to maintain their attacking threat while Tottenham’s frustration grew.
Postecoglou’s side created chances but lacked the cutting edge to convert them—a recurring theme this season.
With domestic form continuing to disappoint, Tottenham’s entire season now hinges on their European campaign. Thursday’s trip to Norway represents their last chance to salvage something meaningful from what has been a turbulent year.
Even a comprehensive victory against Bodo/Glimt—and potential success against likely final opponents Manchester United—may not be enough to secure Postecoglou’s future.
The Australian manager finds himself in an unenviable position. While injuries and squad depth have undoubtedly contributed to Spurs’ struggles, the lack of progress in implementing his high-intensity philosophy has raised eyebrows among the Tottenham hierarchy. The board expected visible signs of development this season, but instead, they’ve witnessed a team that looks increasingly fragile when put under pressure.
Systemic Issues Exposed Again
Sunday’s match followed a familiar pattern for Tottenham this season:
- Bright Start: Odobert’s early goal showcased Spurs’ attacking potential
- Defensive Fragility: Bowen’s equalizer exposed poor positional awareness
- Midfield Imbalance: The absence of a true defensive midfielder left gaps West Ham exploited
- Wasted Opportunities: 15 shots yielded just three on target
These recurring issues suggest deeper problems than just rotation or fatigue. Postecoglou’s system demands precision and intensity that this squad has struggled to deliver consistently. While injuries to key players like James Maddison and Micky van de Ven haven’t helped, the manager’s reluctance to adapt his approach has drawn criticism.
As Tottenham prepare for their most important match of the season in Norway, several questions loom large:
- Can Postecoglou rally his players for one last push? The Europa League represents their only path to redemption.
- Will Daniel Levy show patience? Another trophyless season could test the chairman’s faith in the project.
- Who steps up when it matters? Tottenham need leaders to emerge during this crucial period.
The coming days will define Tottenham’s season—and possibly Postecoglou’s tenure. While European glory could paper over the cracks of their Premier League struggles, failure in Norway may accelerate changes that have seemed inevitable for months. One thing is certain: at a club with Tottenham’s ambitions, mediocrity is never tolerated for long. The pressure is well and truly on.