RE: Harry Houdini

I recently read this post on Football Frustrations and I have a couple of comments to make.

I agree that Redknapp has done so far what was seen as being an impossible job and looks certain to steer Spurs comfortably away from relegation. There is no doubt that on paper the Spurs team was always awash with talent. However, under Ramos those players were a picture of dejection, completely bereft of confidence. Jonathan Woodgate in particular had commented in the press that he believed that he and his team mates were destined to be embroiled in a relegation battle. 

 I would even go as far as to say that maybe towards the end of Ramos' reign the Spurs players had given up on performing for their manager because they did not want to save his job.

Since the arrival of Redknapp Spurs have been transformed. You could be forgiven for thinking that the team under Ramos and the present one are two entirely different sets of players. Redknapp has instilled confidence within the players once again, and given them the reassurance of a run in the team to prove their worth. The pace, verve and inventiveness that characterised Spurs teams of the past has returned, and they are reaping the rewards. 

I believe though, that the task of saving Gomes' premiership career could be a step too far for Redknapp. His error strewn performances show no sign of ending. Not only does his confidence seem to be shattered but the defence in front of him look as if they have no trust him. If this is the case it makes good decision-making within the defence extremely difficult. This in my view makes his position untenable and the only way forward is to leave the club and get a fresh start elsewhere.

Norris Abuse Is Unfair

Following his 'handcuff' celebration against Blackpool, Ipswich Town midfielder David Norris was subjected to a barrage of abuse last weekend.

Ipswich were playing away against Doncaster Rovers, and the home support did not miss the opportunity to goad Norris about his actions. Boos could be heard every time he touched the ball as well as the chant "Friend of a murderer". This treatment cannot simply be brushed off as part and parcel of the game. 

What Norris did was at worst extremely naive and there was never any malice intended in his actions. The gesture regardless of whether it was right or wrong was done to show support for his friend. This was perhaps not the best method of doing so, but everyone makes mistakes. 

It seems some people believe that footballers should be above this, that every mistake on or off the field can and should be heavily scrutinised. Those people should remember that a talent for football does not make them any less human. Hopefully, those who abused Norris will realise this and allow him to put the incident behind him, sooner rather than later.