Former England and Tottenham striker Charlie Austin has delivered a blunt assessment of Spurs after their disappointing 3–0 defeat to Brentford on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.
Tottenham have spent heavily during the summer, with their reported spending approaching £400 million, but Austin questioned whether that investment has actually improved the starting XI.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily, Austin said he saw problems across the pitch and described Tottenham as looking like “the same old Tottenham.” His main concern was that, despite the money spent, Spurs no longer appear to frighten opposing teams in the way they once did.
Austin particularly highlighted the absence of a proven goalscorer capable of replacing the influence previously provided by Harry Kane. He argued that opponents no longer have the same fear when facing Tottenham because there is no obvious striker who consistently threatens to score.
Austin questions Tonali’s £100m price tag
The former striker also addressed Tottenham’s leadership and midfield. While some critics have suggested Spurs lack experienced leaders, Austin pointed to Andy Robertson, a player with significant trophy-winning experience.
However, he questioned the decision to spend around £100 million on Sandro Tonali, arguing that the midfielder’s attacking numbers at Newcastle did not justify such a huge fee.
Richarlison also criticised
Austin was equally doubtful about Richarlison being Tottenham’s answer up front. With Spurs still searching for someone capable of consistently putting the ball in the net, he argued that Richarlison has not shown that he can fill the goalscoring role left behind by Kane.
The criticism comes at a difficult moment for Roberto De Zerbi. The Tottenham manager admitted the Brentford defeat should serve as a wake-up call, although he remains confident that the heavily rebuilt squad can become a dangerous team once the new players properly gel.
So, the main question for Spurs now is simple: has Tottenham actually strengthened the team, or have they simply spent a huge amount of money without fixing the problems that have held them back?
The next few matches under De Zerbi should give us a much clearer answer. ⚪️🔥
