The thriving business side of Tottenham is now “hugely important” in an age of financial fair play punishments, according to Paul Robinson.
The former Spurs keeper admits that fans would rarely have been interested in the finances other than for transfer moves, but with Everton having already been hit by a points deduction this season and Nottingham Forest charged as well as Manchester City the off-field picture is crucial.
And with finance expert Kieran Maguire having hailed Tottenham as the “best run business” in the Premier League [Price of Football podcast, 5 February] under the guidance of Daniel Levy the club are in an excellent position compared to their rivals to avoid difficulties off the pitch.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News Robinson said: “In years gone by they’ve been miles apart and I don’t think fans have really been too worried about a well-run business and how things are off the field.
“They want to see investment in the side and they want to see trophies and success on the pitch, which we know Tottenham have not had for a long time.
“But now the day and age that we’re living in with FFP and the way the financial rules have to be adhered to, you look at the points deductions and how severe and quick they are, to have a well-run football club that’s sustainable off the pitch with a very, very good business model is hugely important.“
Tottenham are starting to put together various elements of a top club in world football, but while supporters will increasingly accept the important of the business model they still want on-pitch success above all.
The new stadium build may have undercut the club’s best chance yet of winning the Premier League or the Champions League as the Mauricio Pochettino squad went without reinforcements at its peak and came up just short to Leicester City and Liverpool respectively.
