Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Tim Sherwood has criticised the club’s transfer decisions this season, suggesting Spurs made a major mistake by failing to recall several loan players during their injury crisis.
The comments come after Tottenham’s 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace deepened their struggles in the Premier League. The loss leaves the north London club hovering just above the relegation zone and searching for answers during a difficult campaign.
With injuries affecting multiple first-team players, Sherwood believes Tottenham overlooked potential solutions already within their own system.
Tim Sherwood criticises Tottenham loan decisions
Sherwood pointed to three players currently out on loan who he believes could have strengthened the squad during the club’s difficult period.
Teenage winger Mikey Moore, defender Luka Vušković and centre-back Ashley Phillips have all been gaining valuable experience away from Tottenham this season.
However, Sherwood argues that recalling them earlier could have helped address the squad depth issues that have plagued Spurs throughout the campaign.
“They loaned Moore out because there’s no pathway for him. But I would argue he’s better than what you’ve got, so bring him back and play him.”
According to Sherwood, Tottenham’s decision not to recall these players has left Igor Tudor short of reliable options during a crucial phase of the season.
Young Tottenham loanees impressing across Europe
All three players highlighted by Sherwood have been regular starters for their respective loan clubs.
| Tottenham Loanees 2025/26 | Club | Appearances | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mikey Moore | Rangers | 24 | 5 goals |
| Luka Vušković | Hamburg | Regular starter | 4 goals |
| Ashley Phillips | Stoke City | 30 | Defensive regular |
source: league match data – 6 March 2026
Moore has impressed at Rangers with several standout performances, while Vušković has adapted quickly to Bundesliga football with Hamburg. Phillips has also been a consistent presence in the Championship with Stoke City.
Sherwood believes these players could have helped Tottenham navigate their current injury problems.
“Vuskovic should have been brought back from Hamburg in my opinion. Phillips should have been brought back as well — not just to sit on the bench, but to play.”
Tottenham injury crisis worsens relegation fears
Tottenham’s struggles this season have been compounded by a lengthy injury list and a lack of experienced depth in key positions.
Igor Tudor, appointed as interim manager earlier in the campaign, has now suffered three consecutive defeats since taking charge.
Spurs are currently enduring their worst run of the season, having failed to win in 11 league matches.
However, it remains too early to determine whether recalling loan players would have significantly changed Tottenham’s situation.
Key Insights
- Tottenham lost 3-1 to Crystal Palace in their latest Premier League match.
- Spurs sit just one point above the relegation zone.
- Tim Sherwood criticised the club for not recalling loan players.
- Mikey Moore, Luka Vušković and Ashley Phillips were highlighted as missed options.
- All three players have been regular starters for their loan clubs.
What’s Next?
Tottenham must quickly recover from their recent defeat as they attempt to move away from the relegation zone in the closing stages of the season.
Improving squad depth and managing injuries will remain key challenges for Igor Tudor and the club’s leadership.
The summer transfer window may also bring renewed focus on Tottenham’s loan strategy and squad planning.
Should Tottenham have recalled their loan players during the injury crisis?
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