The Athletic’s David Ornstein has revealed that Ryan Mason is a very popular figure at Tottenham but expressed doubt as to whether the 31-year-old is seen by the North London club as a potential candidate to take over permanently.
In many ways, it is perhaps a bit surprising that Tottenham have not yet pulled the plug on Antonio Conte, with reports claiming at the start of this week that it is only a matter of time before the Italian is sacked (Telegraph)
The Evening Standard reported on Tuesday that the most likely scenario is for Mason to be given the reins on an interim basis so that the Lilywhites can continue speaking to prospective candidates until the summer.
The former Spurs midfielder did take charge temporarily towards the end of the 2020-21 season when Jose Mourinho was sacked.
Ornstein has explained that he has heard a lot of good things about Mason, with many at Spurs wanting to see him given an opportunity.
The journalist said on the FIVE YouTube channel: “In the meantime, we saw Ryan Mason do a capable job in the past.
“He’s very popular at Tottenham and there are people within the game who would like to see him given the opportunity. There will be questions.
“Does his potential translate into being able to manage Tottenham at this level on a permanent basis?
“Does he have the staff around him? Can you build a sufficient staff to manage a club at this level and the egos of the dressing room?
“I really like what I’ve seen of Ryan Mason and what I’ve heard but that will be a big decision for them to make.”
Spurs Web Opinion
Even if Mason is talented enough as a coach to do the job permanently, the reality is that he will not find it easy to win the respect of the whole dressing room, given his lack of experience in the game.
So, I do not think there is any chance of the Spurs hierarchy considering him as Conte’s permanent replacement.
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