In his latest column for FourFourTwo, Clinton Morrison discusses who should replace Igor Tudor as Tottenham Hotspur’s head coach, analyses the drop in Mohamed Salah’s form at Liverpool, and explains why Michael Carrick deserves a permanent role at Manchester United.

Let me begin with Tottenham’s ongoing troubles — they simply can’t persist with Igor Tudor. If they do, the club is heading for relegation. It’s as straightforward as that.

In my opinion, his man-management is lacking. That was evident when he decided to start young goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky in a high-pressure match despite his lack of experience. When a player is struggling, it’s fine to make a change, but at least wait until half-time. And when you substitute him, acknowledge his effort — that’s basic managerial respect.

Clinton was speaking on behalf of Free Bets, where he serves as an EFL betting expert.

When asked whether Tudor will remain in charge, he said he isn’t sure what the Tottenham hierarchy is planning. Facing Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday will be a tough task, and the following fixture against Nottingham Forest before the international break is essentially a must-win cup final for them.

Right now, it’s hard to see where their next victory will come from. The squad looks completely devoid of spirit and confidence — and it’s the manager’s job to rebuild that belief. Unfortunately, that’s not happening.

Morrison believes the club needs someone who knows Tottenham inside out. He reiterated that Tim Sherwood would be an ideal short-term solution. According to him, Sherwood is available and has the kind of character to bring energy and confidence back into the dressing room. Sean Dyche, another free agent, has also been mentioned as a potential candidate.

Whoever steps in could stabilise things, gain appreciation, and move on, knowing that Mauricio Pochettino remains the long-term target. Alternatively, Tottenham might stick with Tudor in the hope of picking up a few wins from upcoming winnable fixtures.

Morrison highlighted that the squad currently lacks both ideas and belief, which ultimately stems from the manager. He added that Sherwood would adopt a more attacking approach, lifting the players’ morale. At present, the team’s style under Tudor is overly negative. His insistence on playing three at the back doesn’t suit the squad — it’s reminiscent of Ruben Amorim’s approach at United, but less effective.

“If Tim were appointed,” Morrison said, “he’d probably tell the players, ‘We’re not keeping clean sheets, so let’s just outscore the opposition.’ That’s exactly what the team needs right now.” He further explained that realistically, Tottenham can only consider out-of-work managers like Harry Redknapp, Tim Sherwood, or Sean Dyche, since no manager currently employed elsewhere would leave their post to take on such a challenging situation.

Turning to Liverpool, Morrison commented on their disappointing midweek result. “It’s surprising,” he said, “because you always think they’ve turned a corner.” He noted that Liverpool dominated the first 15 minutes against Galatasaray and should have been well ahead, but their lack of ruthlessness in front of goal and poor defending on set pieces cost them dearly.

When asked if Liverpool can still advance, Morrison replied, “Yes, I think they’ll win the second leg at Anfield. European nights there are always special.” However, he acknowledged that Liverpool remain in a tight race to secure Champions League qualification for next season and also face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals. “Liverpool can beat anyone on their day,” he said, “but they keep taking two steps forward and two steps back. If they fail to make the Champions League, I doubt Arne Slot will keep his job.”

Discussing Mohamed Salah’s dip in form, Morrison said he believes Salah is missing Trent Alexander-Arnold — that’s the most logical explanation. He added that as players age, a decline in pace and influence is inevitable. “Is Mo still a top player? Absolutely,” he said. “But it’s not just him — Liverpool aren’t creating as many chances as they used to.”

Morrison praised the partnership between Salah and Alexander-Arnold on the right flank, calling it exceptional. Since then, Liverpool haven’t found a consistent right-back to recreate that chemistry. “If I had to bet,” he continued, “I’d say Salah won’t be at Liverpool next season. I think he’ll move on.”

He added that the good thing is Salah will remain until the end of the season, and he deserves a proper farewell from the fans. “He’ll go down as a Liverpool legend,” Morrison said. “His goal and assist numbers are outstanding, and he still has a lot to offer in Europe. Plenty of top clubs will be interested.”

For now, Salah’s focus will be helping Liverpool secure a Champions League spot. Morrison also turned his attention to Manchester United, who are competing for the same goal and have a big decision to make regarding Michael Carrick’s future.

“They had a setback against Newcastle,” he noted, “but Carrick has done an excellent job overall. All he can do is keep winning games. Whatever happens, his reputation is growing.” Morrison believes Carrick deserves to be considered for the permanent managerial role. “I understand the hesitation — interim managers often do well initially but struggle once appointed permanently — but Carrick is a talented young coach. Even if he doesn’t get the United job, I’m sure he’ll be managing a Premier League club next season.”