Micky van de Ven dismisses Tottenham apathy claims as ‘biggest nonsense’
Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven has dismissed suggestions that the club’s players have stopped caring amid their Premier League relegation battle as “the biggest nonsense”.
The Dutch centre-back was suspended for Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool, a result which leaves the North London side just one point above the relegation zone.
That hard-fought stalemate at Anfield earned newly appointed head coach Igor Tudor his first point in charge.
‘We care so much about the situation’
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg against Atletico Madrid, the 24-year-old expressed deep frustration at the recent media narrative.
“Reporters just say things sometimes and it’s like ‘how did you come up with this?'” Van de Ven stated.
“They say players are going to leave either way, but it’s just nonsense and it’s only a problem when people start believing it.”
The Netherlands international warned that fabricated rumours create unnecessary friction with the fanbase.
“It brings so much more trouble because fans are starting to believe this,” he added.
“All the people involved care so much about the situation we’re in, and that’s the most important thing right now.”
European distraction and domestic survival
Spurs face a monumental task in Europe as they attempt to overturn a 5-2 first-leg deficit against the Spanish giants.
However, domestic survival remains the ultimate priority for a squad desperately searching for form.
“I just want to stay fit and turn things around,” the defender insisted.
“I know the last games haven’t been my best, but the most important thing is that I give 100 per cent to this club.”
Manager Igor Tudor echoed his player’s sentiments, insisting the squad is fully committed as he searches for his first victory.
Tottenham will face a crucial bottom-of-the-table Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest this weekend following their European commitments.
