Robinson hints at Tottenham fallout after unexpected Doherty development
Paul Robinson has claimed "something is clearly amiss" at Tottenham after Matt Doherty was dropped from their Premier League matchday squad.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former White Hart Lane number one was left baffled by the 29-year-old's omission at Aston Villa and hinted at a potential fallout behind the scenes.
The right-back was on the bench for Spurs’ shock 3-0 Europa League exit in Dinamo Zagreb, but was missing from the squad that bounced back at Villa Park on Sunday.
On Twitter, the club revealed that Serge Aurier and Toby Alderweireld were absent for the 2-0 win because of illness but there was no mitigating circumstances given for Doherty.
A £15million summer signing from Wolves, Doherty has struggled to settle in north London.
When asked for his assessment of the Republic of Ireland international's situation, Robinson told Football Insider:
"Doherty was missing against Aston Villa and listening to Mourinho's press conference, something is clearly amiss.
"It is extremely hard to put your finger on what is going on behind the scenes. For Doherty to be on the bench in Zagreb and then to not be in the squad against Villa...There is clearly still a lot to unfold.
"They have a squad that has an abundance of talent but when you look at right-back, you think Doherty would at least be on the bench.
"I think Doherty has done alright this season and for me, he is a great player. I would play him."