The former Tottenham Hotspur defender has used Manchester United as an example of how bad things could be for his old side.
Graham Roberts has delivered his verdict on Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League exit.
Spurs were beaten at Group E leaders Monaco on Tuesday and can no longer finish above second-place Bayer Leverkusen, who boast a better head-to-head record.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side must now avoid defeat in their final group game at home to CSKA Moscow if they are to remain in Europe beyond the New Year, albeit in the Europa League.
Despite its knockers, the competition could be Tottenham’s ticket to a Champions League qualification next season, with the north Londoners currently fifth in the Premier League.
And Roberts, who won the Europa League in its previous format 32 years ago, is desperate for his old side to repeat the trick – saying they should prioritise the competition.
The 57-year-old posted on Twitter:
Pochettino’s team selection – specifically his decision to leave key men Kyle Walker and Jan Vertonghen on the bench in Monaco – has been heavily criticised in the aftermath of Tuesday’s defeat.
However, Roberts has urged Spurs fans not to turn on the Argentine, who was experiencing Champions League football for the first time in management.
He added:
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