"That's what chance they've got" - Arsenal legend Paul Merson pokes fun at Tottenham after North London derby loss
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has mocked Tottenham Hotspur after Ange Postecoglu's side lost 1-0 to their bitter rivals at home on Sunday, September 15. The player-turned-pundit mocked the Spurs manager's trophy claim by comparing it with his chances of winning a reality TV show.
Tottenham hosted Arsenal in an explosive North London derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. After a goalless first half, Gunners defender Gabriel Malgalhaes scored the game's only goal in the 64th minute. The Brazilian rose highest to head home Bukayo Saka's corner to give his side the bragging rights.
After the match, Arsenal legend Merson teased Spurs on Sky Sports, claiming he has a better chance of winning 'Strictly Come Dancing' than Tottenham have of winning a trophy.
"I like Ange, I like him. But I've got more chance of winning Strictly [Come Dancing]. That's what chance they've got," he joked.
Paul Merson is partnering with Venezuelan ballroom dancer Karen Hauer in this year's Strictly Come Dancing, which began over the weekend. Other famous personalities to feature in the show are three-time Olympic gold medal-winning swimmer Tom Dean and Olympic gold medal-winning hockey player Sam Quek.
"I always win things in my second year" - Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou after Arsenal loss
Tottenham have made a slow start to the 2023-24 Premier League season. With just four points in as many matches, they are 13th in the standings.
Spurs started the season with a 1-1 draw with newly promoted Leicester City before posting an emphatic 4-0 win over Everton. They then suffered losses to Newcastle United (2-1) and Arsenal (1-0) either side of the international break.
Ahead of the season, Ange Postecoglou, in his second year with the Premier League side, claimed they would win a trophy this term. Despite losing to Arsenal, the former Celtic boss reiterated it would be a season to remember for Tottenham fans with silverware to come.
He told Sky Sports reporter Emma Saunders:
"No absolutely and I think I'll correct myself and say that I don't usually win things, I always win things in my second year I don't say things unless I believe it."
When asked if Spurs can win a trophy this season, Postecoglou replied he doesn't make claims he doesn't believe in.
"Well, I sort of said it now. I don't say things unless I believe them," the Australian said.
If Postecoglou delivers on his promise, it would be the club's first trophy in over 16 years. Tottenham's last trophy came under manager Juande Ramos in 2008 when they beat Chelsea in extra time to win the League Cup.