Premier League
Tottenham Warned They Are In A Genuine Relegation Dogfight As Wayne Rooney Defends Cristian Romero Over Costly Red Card Against Man Utd
The alarm bells are ringing louder than ever for Tottenham Hotspur. Following a demoralising 2-0 defeat to Manchester United, former England captain Wayne Rooney has warned that Spurs are now fully immersed in a relegation battle.
Currently sitting in 15th place and with seven Premier League matches without a win, Tottenham fans are facing a familiar sense of dread. Rooney, speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, was clear about the danger: Spurs can no longer focus on the top six—instead, they must worry about teams like Nottingham Forest and West Ham, who are closing in on them.
“They are in a genuine relegation battle”
Rooney highlighted both the psychological and tactical issues plaguing Thomas Frank’s side. “You’d have to say they are with their current form,” Rooney explained. “West Ham have been in form, Nottingham Forest pick up results here and there. You can’t think that they’re not in a relegation battle where they are. I think they’ll definitely be looking over their shoulders.”
Cristian Romero red card sparks debate
A key talking point from the match was the dismissal of Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, who received a straight red for a late challenge on Casemiro. While many critics slammed the defender for his sixth red card since joining Spurs, Rooney offered a more sympathetic take.
“I can see why it’s been given but I think it’s a little bit harsh,” Rooney said. “Sometimes you lose your head at times. And I think he’s done that throughout his time at Tottenham.”
However, Rooney did call out Romero for his recent social media comments about Tottenham’s squad depth. “What doesn’t help is comments in the week before about the lack of players Tottenham have. He clearly speaks his mind as well. But unfortunately, you’ve got to go and back that up with performances when you’re vocal like that—and I don’t think he’s done that.”
As Tottenham struggle to find their footing, fans are left hoping that leadership and focus can turn the tide before the relegation battle becomes even more real.
Want to advertise with us?
Contact sales@ventolitemarketing.com
-
World Cup 20261 day agoJoe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will ‘put Lionel Messi to bed’
-
World Cup 20261 day agoJude Bellingham and Thomas Tuchel’s fiery relationship is driving England forward at the World Cup
-
World Cup 20261 day agoCristiano Ronaldo gets backing from Jorge Jesus as new Portugal boss confirms Al-Nassr star remains central to World Cup plans
-
World Cup 202617 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
-
World Cup 20261 day agoTed Lasso star Cristo Fernandez fulfils football dream with professional debut for El Paso Locomotive
-
World Cup 20261 day agoKylian Mbappe has the perfect chance to silence his Spanish critics against Spain in World Cup semi-final
-
Sports Analysis18 hours agoAndoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan
-
Local News16 hours agoEnyimba, 3SC, Sunshine Stars, Kwara United, Others Storm Lagos For Football Fiesta