Tottenham's defeat was not just a matter of the scoreline; their overall performance was disappointing. In manager Roberto De Zerbi's debut match, the London club registered an expected goals (xG) statistic of only 0.91 in the first half and a mere 0.15 in the second half.
The 0-1 loss leaves Tottenham in 18th place in the Premier League with 30 points, two points adrift of West Ham and safety, with six rounds remaining. Despite being part of the "Big 6" in the Premier League and having won the Europa League in 2025, Tottenham's fate in the relegation battle is no longer in their own hands.
"I cannot believe it. Tottenham look like they are going down," Carragher told Sky Sports. "Other teams in the relegation zone show some positive signs, but Tottenham do not."
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Tottenham midfielder Joao Palhinha (number 6) is frustrated after the 0-1 loss to Sunderland in round 32 of the Premier League at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, England on 12/4/2026. Photo: Reuters |
Tottenham has endured 14 winless matches since the start of 2026, marking the 4th worst record in the league's history. Only Derby County in 2008 (18 matches), Sunderland in 2003 (17 matches), and Swindon Town in 1993 (15 matches) had longer streaks. All three of those teams were relegated in their respective seasons.
When Tottenham faces Brighton in their next fixture on 18/4, they will reach 111 days without a Premier League victory.
Despite a remaining schedule that includes crucial relegation deciders against direct rivals like Wolves on 25/4 and Leeds on 11/5, Carragher remains pessimistic. "You look at the schedule and think those are good matches for Tottenham, but in reality, they are too poor. Even against Wolves, who are currently at the bottom of the table, I do not believe Tottenham can win away from home."
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Tottenham forward Randal Kolo Muani falls while challenging two Sunderland players, Omar Alderete and Luke O’Nien. Photo: Reuters |
Echoing this sentiment, former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara criticized his old club's unacceptable performance, noting that numerous players are underperforming. "Tottenham do not deserve any points. They barely did anything and made no impact," he stated.
According to O'Hara, Tottenham cannot "carry six underperforming players" in the fight to avoid relegation. He estimates the team's chances of staying in the Premier League at only 10%, emphasizing that manager De Zerbi cannot work miracles if the players do not improve their form.
"Tottenham needs 7-8 more points, but where will those points come from? I do not see it," he said. "They lack fight, quality, and passion – all essential elements to remain in the league."
Meanwhile, Jamie Redknapp expressed skepticism about the quality of Tottenham's squad, particularly the ability of individual players to make a difference. The former Tottenham midfielder believes his old team lacks players who can decide matches, such as Jarrod Bowen or Crysencio Summerville, who are helping West Ham maintain impressive form and escape the relegation zone.
"You need players who can shine and secure victories. Looking at Tottenham, who will do that?" Redknapp asked. "Bowen or Summerville always know how to create moments. That is what Tottenham is missing."
Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports)

