Joe Cole Dismisses Tottenham’s Title Hopes After Wolves Loss

TNT Sports’ Joe Cole has poured cold water on Tottenham’s hopes of winning the Premier League title after their dramatic 2-1 defeat to Wolves. The late goals from Pablo Sarabia and Mario Lemina secured a stunning victory for Gary O’Neil’s side, leaving Ange Postecoglou’s team with back-to-back defeats following their 4-1 loss to Chelsea on Monday.

These two defeats have halted the early-season momentum that saw Tottenham sitting at the top of the Premier League table. Speaking on TNT Sports after the match, Cole stated, “I didn’t really consider them as title contenders. I know there was a lot of noise, but it’s a lesson learned for many teams. The Premier League is unforgiving. They’ve lost some influential players, and the new signings are not quite up to match fitness, which brings their level down a bit.”

Cole believes that Tottenham’s lack of squad depth is starting to show, comparing them to teams like Manchester City and Arsenal who have better options to cope with injuries. “Man City have lost two centre-halves and De Bruyne, but they easily replace them and nothing changes,” he explained. “Arsenal are at that second level which Tottenham needs to reach. If Martinelli gets injured, Smith Rowe or Trossard can come in. Tottenham is not there yet and lacks like-for-like replacements.”

Former player Joleon Lescott also highlighted the absence of James Maddison, who is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, as a massive blow to Spurs. He suggests that now is the time for Tottenham to reassess their aims for the season. “In the space of a week, they’ve lost two games,” Lescott said. “It’s not over by any means, but they may have to re-evaluate their expectations and look to strengthen in the transfer window.”

Lescott emphasized the importance of not relying too heavily on one individual and losing them. He stated, “I don’t mean in terms of quality, but in terms of style. Hojbjerg brings different strengths to Maddison, but they don’t have a replacement for him or someone equally efficient.”

Overall, the defeat to Wolves has raised doubts about Tottenham’s ability to challenge for the Premier League title. With their lack of squad depth and the absence of key players, it seems that they have some work to do if they want to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal.