‘I’m telling you…’ – Exclusive: Bent reveals big Spurs worry ahead of Man United showdown
Darren Bent believes that playing games behind closed doors could negatively impact Tottenham but boost Manchester United between now and the end of the season.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, the former Spurs and England striker claims that the fans in north London have played a huge role in the club’s success.
The Lilywhites are set to return to Premier League action on Friday night with a home clash against Manchester United.
However, Jose Mourinho and his men will be playing in an empty Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as a result of the protocols brought in to combat the spread of Coronavirus.
Bent believes that losing the north London faithful will be a bitter blow for Spurs but suggests that other teams, like Manchester United, could actually flourish without supporters.
Bent told Football Insider: “I think everyone’s in the same boat, whoever can adapt to this new footballing situation, with no fans, will ultimately get the best results.
“We know, and obviously I played for Spurs, their supporters play a big, big role. They get behind the team, they sing, it’s loud in there – maybe not quite the same feel as White Hart Lane did but that’s coming.
“Spurs fans are always vocal, always get behind their team. Now the fact they’re taking that away, I’m telling you, it might be a little bit (difficult).
“With the Manchester United situation, with Pogba, the United fans were on Pogba, when there’s no fans everybody plays with freedom – that might suit some of those players. It’s going to be a tough ask for Spurs.”
Spurs currently sit eighth in the Premier League table, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea.
The Lilywhites play five of their remaining nine games at home, including a north London derby against Arsenal.
In other Tottenham news, Alan Hutton claims a midfielder ruled out against Manchester United would “definitely have started”.