Tottenham suffer blow as Dougie Freedman rejects sporting director role
Tottenham Hotspur’s search for a new sporting director has suffered a major setback after top target Dougie Freedman rejected a move to the struggling Premier League club.
The north London side are attempting a massive behind-the-scenes overhaul following the departure of former chief Fabio Paratici.
However, former Crystal Palace and current Al-Diriyah executive Freedman has declined the opportunity to lead the rebuild.
The rejection compounds a miserable campaign for the club, who face a genuine threat of dropping into the Championship.
Relegation fears and managerial uncertainty
They currently sit 17th in the Premier League table, hovering just a single point above the drop zone with seven games remaining.
The incoming sporting director was expected to heavily influence the appointment of the next permanent manager.
Current boss Igor Tudor has endured a torrid spell since replacing Thomas Frank in the dugout.
The Croatian tactician has managed just one point from his five matches in charge.
Shearer defends struggling Tudor
Former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer believes the manager should not bear the brunt of the criticism.
“It’s not Igor Tudor’s fault, but obviously, he’s picked up one point from five games, but the club was a mess before he got there.”
“You’re not going to be put in his situation without the club being in a mess. As tough as it is, he hasn’t been able to have an impact on the squad and on the football club.”
Shearer also highlighted the difficult personal circumstances facing the former Juventus defender following the recent death of his father.
Contingency plans for the dugout
With top-flight survival on the line, club chiefs are reportedly considering another managerial change before the season concludes.
Former Burnley and Everton manager Sean Dyche could be offered a short-term contract to steer the team to safety.
The out-of-work coach is viewed as an alternative if primary long-term target Roberto De Zerbi refuses to take the reins immediately.
The relegation-threatened outfit return to action next weekend when they travel to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland.
