Hoddle slates ‘diabolical’ Tottenham after Europa League exit

Glenn Hoddle pulled no punches in his assessment of Tottenham’s performance after their shock Europa League exit at the hands of Dinamo Zagreb.

Leading 2-0 from the first leg, Jose Mourinho’s Spurs side were beaten 3-0 by the Croatian champions, losing 3-2 on aggregate.


It was a humiliating defeat for Hoddle’s former club and the Spurs legend admitted the best team won.

Speaking on BT Sport, the ex-Tottenham player and manager said: “I certainly didn’t see it coming.

“But to be fair to Zagreb, they showed more heart, more determination and in the end they showed better skills – better technique and ability.

“You’ve got to say they deserved the win. Spurs were diabolical.”

Mislav Orsic scored a hat-trick, with his goals including a late equaliser and his team’s winner in extra time.

Harry Kane almost rescued Tottenham but was denied by fine saves from Dinamo keeper Dominik Livakovic.

Hoddle also felt that Spurs badly missed the presence of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg in midfield.

They were overrun in the centre of the park, where the Dane would certainly have made a difference.

Hoddle said: “He’s one that leads them and is always talking to players and being demanding of them. They missed him big time.”