‘It was difficult’ – Europa League champion blames Sherwood for Spurs exit

Villarreal midfielder Etienne Capoue has revealed that Tim Sherwood was the reason he left Tottenham Hotspur back in 2015. 

The 33-year-old joined Spurs in 2013 as a part of the infamous ‘Magnificent Seven’ incomings after the club received a then world-record transfer fee for Gareth Bale. 

However, just 36 appearances and two years later, Capoue headed out the exit door in North London and signed for Watford, where he completed a successful five-and-a-half-year stint. 

His performances for the Hornets earned him a move to Villarreal in December last year where he quickly established himself as a lynchpin in midfield under Unai Emery. 

Capoue, who was part of the side which won last season’s Europa League final, has since opened up on his Spurs exit, and singled out then-manager Sherwood for using academy players over him as a reason behind his departure. 

In an interview with The Athletic, Capoue said: “[Tim] Sherwood preferred players from the academy and other English players so it was difficult for me. But being at Tottenham changed my way of thinking, of training.

“When you are not playing, that’s the worst thing for a player. So many things go through your mind and you start to realise what you did at your previous club means nothing.”

Spurs Web Opinion 

Capoue was one of the more understated incomings during 2013’s spending spree, and many thought he would cement a spot defensive midfield.

Unfortunately, inconsistent performances and injuries really hampered his time here, but it is good to see him now relishing potential. 

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