Igor Tudor says saving Tottenham is the biggest rescue job of his career after a 4-1 derby defeat and no league wins in 2026. Betting angle: expect pragmatic, defence-first setups — consider backing under 2.5 goals or Spurs to draw/lose narrowly while they prioritise results over flair.
Tudor: Tottenham rescue job is biggest of my career
Igor Tudor has admitted his new role at Tottenham represents the biggest rescue operation of his managerial career. Arriving with a reputation for immediate impact, Tudor faced a 4-1 home defeat to Arsenal in his first match and now steers a side just four points above the relegation zone and without a league win so far in 2026.
Results over style — a pragmatic pivot
Tudor was blunt about priorities: with Premier League survival the immediate objective, style has become secondary. "There's not too much time to think about performance or style," he said, insisting every match must be prepared with one aim — taking the points. He added that while he values a distinct style, the current situation forces a focus on results alone, calling it "a question of life and death" sportingly.
Adopting an underdog mentality
The head coach urged his squad to embrace a smaller‑club mentality — high willingness, motivation and fight against ostensibly stronger opponents. Tudor stressed that mentality is forged in training and that visible change must come quickly to convince supporters on matchday.
Champions League complicates survival bid
Tudor warned that Tottenham's involvement in European competition makes the survival fight more difficult. With a stretched squad, playing every three days takes a toll on players' physical and mental energy, he said, highlighting a lack of numbers as a real problem when every league game feels like a final.
Injury update: Porro, Danso, van de Ven and Kulusevski
Tudor confirmed Pedro Porro and Kevin Danso have returned to training and will be in contention for the upcoming trip to Fulham. Centre‑back Micky van de Ven is expected to be available despite a minor toe issue, and there is cautious optimism that Dejan Kulusevski could return before the season ends.
Van de Ven interaction clarified
After fan footage appeared to show van de Ven ignoring Tudor's encouragements during the derby, the coach dismissed suggestions of disrespect. Tudor explained the instruction was directed at the whole defence to push up, not at the individual, and described van de Ven as a "fantastic" professional. He said there was nothing significant to discuss afterwards.
External criticism of squad mentality
Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara publicly criticised the current squad's attitude, claiming players "haven't got the stomach for a relegation fight.
"O'Hara said he expected a manager bounce and greater intensity, particularly defending basics — running, competing and preventing simple crosses — which he sees as lacking despite injury concerns.
What this means on the pitch
Tudor's message points to a short‑term shift toward defensive organisation, hard work and pragmatic game plans.
Tottenham Eyeing Crystal Palace Goalkeeper Dean Henderson
With fixtures congested and margins tight at the bottom of the table, Tottenham are likely to prioritise compact displays and minimising errors as they seek points to climb clear of danger.
Sky Sports
