Tottenham fire Stellini, appoints Ryan Mason

Tottenham Hotspur sacks coach Stellini following a 5-0 loss to Newcastle, Ryan Mason takes over as head coach. Where does the club go from here?

Tottenham has laid off Christian Stellini following the heavy loss at Newcastle, Ryan Mason will lead the team till the end of the season but where does the club go from here? (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

It’s no longer news that Tottenham Hotspur have fired coach Stellini following the embarrassment at St. James’s Park and appointed Ryan Mason as the interim manager.

It’s been coming; of the four games the Italian managed, Spurs won only one.

And it was very contentious, with the referee’s board having to send an apology note to Brighton for several incorrect calls that could have taken the game away from Tottenham.

A statement by Daniel Levy reads, "Sunday's performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable. It was devastating to see. We can look at many reasons why it happened, and while I, the board, the coaches, and the 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.

"Ryan Mason will take over head coach duties with immediate effect. Ryan knows the club and the players well. We shall update you further on his coaching staff in due course.

"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 that we need to deliver performances that earn your amazing support."

Where does Tottenham go from here? They’re in danger of dropping out of Europe altogether, with Brighton and Liverpool threatening to usurp them.

Beyond the appointment of Mason, who will be the long-term manager?

Antonio Conte largely criticised the club’s hierarchy, and he was subsequently sacked. Was the Italian right?