Spurs sack caretaker Stellini after six-goal drubbing

| April 25, 2023

Cristian Stellini has been sacked as Tottenham’s acting head coach following a “wholly unacceptable” defeat at Newcastle.

Ex-player Ryan Mason will become the club’s second caretaker boss since parting company with Antonio Conte less than a month ago.

Spurs were thrashed 6-1 at St James’ Park on Sunday, falling five goals behind in the opening 21 minutes on a day which further dented their ambitions of qualifying for the Champions League.

Stellini, who changed tactics to field a back four, then had to revert to a five midway through the first half, was appointed in an interim role having worked under Conte.

“Sunday’s performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable. It was devastating to see,” said chairman Daniel Levy.

Levy has now appointed four permanent and three caretaker managers in five years,

He added: “We can look at many reasons why it happened and whilst myself, the board, the coaches and players must all take collective responsibility, ultimately the responsibility is mine.

“Cristian will leave his current role along with his coaching staff. Cristian stepped in at a difficult point in our season and I want to thank him for the professional manner in which he and his coaching staff have conducted themselves during such a challenging time. We wish him and his staff well.”

Mason, 31, will take the reins for a second time having also acted as interim head coach in 2021 following the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

“Ryan Mason will take over head coach duties with immediate effect. Ryan knows the club and the players well. We shall update further on his coaching staff in due course,” Levy’s statement continued.

“I met with the player committee today – the squad is determined to pull together to ensure the strongest possible finish to the season. We are all clear we need to deliver performances which earn your amazing support.”

Spurs are now outsiders in the race for a Champions League place and sit six points adrift of Manchester United – who they host on Thursday night – despite playing two games more.