This is the sixth in our series of articles on Premier League clubs. We started with what has been the biggest of them all Manchester United, then followed by Liverpool the second biggest (but who have overall won more trophies than Manchester United, more European cup titles and an equal number of league titles) and then the third in the ‘big three’, Arsenal. Then we moved on to Man City who have for the past decade been the most successful club in England but do not have the same level of history as the big three. Then after that we looked at Chelsea and now we will be looking at the last in what has often been called ‘the big six’. We will look at Tottenhman hotspurs. This essay delves into the club’s origins, historical milestones, stadiums, managerial eras, decade-by-decade performances, and the trophies that have adorned their cabinet.
Origins and Early History
The club was first founded in 1882 by some young schoolboys from the Hotspur Cricket Club, who wanted to create a football team for their already existing cricket team. Tottenham Hotspur was established to provide a winter sport alternative to cricket. At first they started playing on Tottenham Marshes, however the club quickly gained popularity, leading to a move to Northumberland Park in 1888. By 1899, Spurs settled at White Hart Lane, a ground that would become synonymous with the club for over a century. Their current much revamped stadium which is viewed by many as the best in the premiership is still on the same location.
In 1901, Tottenham made history by becoming the first non-League club to win the FA Cup, defeating Sheffield United 3-1 in a replay. This victory signaled the club’s potential and set the stage for future successes.
Stadiums: The Homes of Spurs
White Hart Lane (1899–2017)
White Hart Lane served as Tottenham’s home for 118 years. Originally built with a capacity of nearly 80,000, renovations over the years transformed it into an all-seater stadium with a capacity of 36,284 by the time of its closure in 2017. The ground witnessed countless memorable moments, including league triumphs, cup victories, and European nights.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (2019–Present)
In April 2019, Spurs inaugurated their new state-of-the-art Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the site of the old White Hart Lane. With a capacity of 62,850, it stands as one of the premier football venues globally, featuring a retractable pitch and hosting various events beyond football. Whilst work was being done on the stadium Spurs played their home matches at Wembley stadium. The cost of the new stadium may have been as much as $1.5 billion, New York Times. However despite what the cost might have been it is generally seen as very successful and other clubs have followed suit including Everton who have recently built a new stadium too.
Club Colours and Kits
Tottenham’s traditional home colours are white shirts and navy blue shorts, a combination adopted in 1898. Over the years, the club’s kits have evolved, reflecting contemporary designs while maintaining the iconic white and navy palette. The away and third kits have seen various colours, including yellow, green, and purple, showcasing the club’s adaptability and style.
Managerial Eras
Arthur Rowe (1949–1955)
Arthur Rowe introduced the revolutionary “push and run” style, emphasizing quick passing and movement. Under his guidance, Spurs won their first First Division title in 1951, laying the foundation for future successes.
Bill Nicholson (1958–1974)
Arguably the most successful manager in Spurs’ history, Bill Nicholson led the club to numerous honours, including:
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First Division: 1960–61
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FA Cup: 1960–61, 1961–62, 1966–67
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European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1962–63
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League Cup: 1970–71, 1972–73
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UEFA Cup: 1971–72
Nicholson’s tenure is remembered for the club’s attacking flair and European exploits. Unfortunately he left the club on bad terms but is now remembered as a club legend and is celebrated.
Keith Burkinshaw (1976–1984)
Burkinshaw revitalized Spurs in the late 1970s and early 1980s, securing:
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FA Cup: 1980–81, 1981–82
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UEFA Cup: 1983–84
His era is noted for the acquisition of international stars and a return to European prominence.
Mauricio Pochettino (2014–2019)
Pochettino transformed Spurs into consistent top-four contenders, emphasizing youth development and high-pressing football. His tenure peaked with a Champions League final appearance in 2019, though silverware eluded him.
Antonio Conte (2021–2023)
Conte’s disciplined approach led Spurs back to the Champions League, but inconsistencies and off-field issues marked his stint.
Ange Postecoglou (2023–Present)
Appointed in 2023, Postecoglou brought an attacking philosophy to Spurs. Despite a challenging 2024–25 Premier League season, he led the club to Europa League glory, their first European title in 41 years.
Decade-by-Decade Performance
1880s: Foundations on the Marshes
In 1882, a group of schoolboys from the Hotspur Cricket Club established a football team to maintain fitness during the winter months. Initially named Hotspur FC, the club played its early matches on Tottenham Marshes. By 1884, to distinguish themselves from another London club, they adopted the name Tottenham Hotspur. The team began participating in local competitions, laying the groundwork for future successes.
1890s: Establishing Identity
The 1890s marked significant developments for Spurs. In 1895, the club turned professional, and by 1898, it became a limited company. A pivotal moment came in 1899 when Tottenham moved to a new ground behind the White Hart pub, which would become known as White Hart Lane. This decade solidified the club’s identity and set the stage for competitive achievements.
1900s: Early Glory
The new century brought early success. In 1900, Spurs won the Southern League, and a year later, they made history by becoming the only non-League club to win the FA Cup since the formation of the Football League, defeating Sheffield United 3–1 in a replay. This victory elevated the club’s national profile.
1910s: War and Relegation
Tottenham joined the Football League Second Division in 1908 and achieved promotion to the First Division in 1909. However, the outbreak of World War I in 1914 led to the suspension of competitive football. Before the war, Spurs faced relegation in 1915, highlighting a period of instability.
1920s: Post-War Resurgence
After World War I, Spurs quickly regained momentum. They secured promotion to the First Division in 1920 and won their second FA Cup in 1921, defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers 1–0. Despite these successes, the decade ended with relegation in 1928, reflecting the team’s fluctuating fortunes.
1930s: Economic Challenges
The 1930s were marked by economic difficulties and inconsistent performances. Spurs oscillated between divisions, achieving promotion in 1933 but facing relegation again in 1935. The decade concluded with the club in the Second Division, preparing for the challenges ahead.
1940s: Wartime Disruptions
World War II caused the suspension of official competitions, with regional leagues taking their place. Post-war, Arthur Rowe became manager in 1949, introducing the “push and run” style that would soon revolutionize the team’s play.
1950s: Rise to Prominence
Under Rowe’s guidance, Spurs won the Second Division in 1950 and clinched their first First Division title in 1951. This period marked the club’s ascent to the upper echelons of English football, setting the stage for future triumphs.
1960s: The Golden Era
The 1960s stand as Tottenham’s most illustrious decade. Under manager Bill Nicholson, the team achieved the historic Double in 1961, winning both the First Division and the FA Cup. They added another FA Cup in 1962 and became the first British club to win a European trophy by securing the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1963. The decade concluded with another FA Cup victory in 1967, solidifying Spurs’ legacy. If Spurs had continued on that trajectory six decades ago then it is arguable that they and not Arsenal would be the ‘biggest’ and most successful club in London.
1970s: European Success
The 1970s saw continued success, with Spurs winning the League Cup in 1971 and the UEFA Cup in 1972. They added another League Cup in 1973. While the latter part of the decade was less fruitful, the early 70s maintained the club’s competitive stature.
1980s: Domestic and European Triumphs
Under manager Keith Burkinshaw, Spurs won the FA Cup in 1981 and 1982. They achieved European glory again by winning the UEFA Cup in 1984. The decade also featured the emergence of stars like Glenn Hoddle, enhancing the club’s reputation.
1990s: Transition and Challenges
The 1990s were a period of transition. Spurs won the FA Cup in 1991 under Terry Venables but struggled to maintain consistent league performances. The decade ended with the club striving to reclaim its former glory amidst managerial changes and financial constraints.
2000s: Rebuilding Phase
The new millennium began with efforts to rebuild. Spurs won the League Cup in 2008 under Juande Ramos, their first major trophy in nine years. The decade laid the groundwork for future stability and competitiveness.
2010s: Return to the Elite
Under Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs became regular top-four finishers, culminating in a Champions League final appearance in 2019. The team showcased attractive football and developed talents like Harry Kane, re-establishing themselves among England’s elite clubs.
2020s: Recent Developments
The 2020s have been a mix of highs and lows. In the 2024–25 season, Spurs secured their first European title in 41 years by winning the UEFA Europa League, defeating Manchester United 1–0. However, their domestic form was concerning, finishing 17th in the Premier League, narrowly avoiding relegation. Manager Ange Postecoglou’s future remains uncertain despite the European success
Trophies and Honours
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First Division/Premier League: 2 (1950–51, 1960–61)
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FA Cup: 8 (1900–01, 1920–21, 1960–61, 1961–62, 1966–67, 1980–81, 1981–82, 1990–91)
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League Cup: 4 (1970–71, 1972–73, 1998–99, 2007–08)
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FA Community Shield: 7 (1921, 1951, 1961, 1962, 1967, 1981, 1991)
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European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1 (1962–63)
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UEFA Cup/Europa League: 3 (1971–72, 1983–84, 2024–25)
Conclusion
Tottenham Hotspur are north London giants though they are often derided ‘affectionately’ or maybe more critically than that as perennial losers or ‘nearly men’ with the word ‘Spursy’ being used to refer to fail to win a victory when close to winning or just being unlucky. However in the real world of international football they are giants and are far richer than most big clubs in Europe and have massive global attention on them due to the huge popularity of the English Premier League. Their current chairman Daniel Levy has come under heavy criticism amongst some sections of the fanbase for not being able to win the title. This however might well be a reflection of Levy’s success if anything. In the 1980s and 90s Spurs were not seen as ‘heavyweights’ or regular title contenders and were seen more like how Aston Villa or West Ham would be seen today. However with Spur’s recent resurgence and coming close to winning the title in 2016 it seems some of their fanbase expect more now. This could be argued as being somewhat unrealistic as the club last won the league 64 years ago. The recent years can be seen as a testament to Levy’s success as they have been ‘overperforming ‘i.e. performing better than their normal level contrary to some fan’s fallacious view they have been ‘underperforming’. Our prediction is that Spurs will continue to do well in the League including perhaps gaining regular entry into the Champions League.
Please leave your comments. What do you think is the future of Spurs?