After the initial new manager bounce', reality has once again start to hit home about the situation Spurs currently find themselves in. A fortunate draw at Norwich was followed up with a defeat at Southampton, with Jose Mourinho's side still six points behind Chelsea despite their poor form.
Things could become even more difficult over the next few weeks. Harry Kane was taken off due to an apparent hamstring injury in the loss at St. Mary's, with Jose Mourinho today confirming he was facing a spell on the sidelines:
I don't think we're going to have good news. I think we're going to lose him for some period, I'm totally convinced of that."
Maybe later we have news. My feeling is that it's more bad news than good news. What the player felt, Kane leaving a match the way he did it.
He didn't think twice, took him two seconds to realise the severity of the situation.
While nobody likes to see a player suffering an injury, Irish supporters were hopeful this could result in more opportunities for one of our young stars.
Troy Parrott made his Premier League debut in the win over Burnley last month, but has not featured since. An injury to Kane should see him move up the pecking order, with many hopeful that the Dublin native could be some significant playing time in the coming weeks.
However, Jose Mourinho does not appear to see it that way.
While he said Parrott could see the pitch against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup this weekend, he does not feel he is ready to step into the breach left by Kane. What's more, he won't be allowed to leave the club on loan either:
Next step is for (Parrott) is to sign a new contract in the long-term because at this club we care about our young players. He could play against Middlesbrough.
At age of 17, I don't think it's good to go on loan to the Championship or another country.
At 17 you are a baby, and need to be with your father club. Minutes will arrive but step by step, not in a situation where you are straight away the replacement for Kane.
While Parrott may only 17-years old, first team football will be key for his development. While a sizeable role may be out of reach for now some time on the pitch should be a priority for the player.
He only has 18 months remaining on his current contract, and with negotiations ongoing over a new deal, it has been suggested that assurances over playing time will be required before he puts pen to paper on any new agreement.
