David Pleat, a long-time figure at Tottenham Hotspur, has announced his departure from the club after over 20 years of service. The 79-year-old has been involved with Spurs’ scouting team since 2010, but he revealed on Monday that he will be stepping back from his role.
In a statement, Pleat expressed his love for football, stating that it continues to be his life. He acknowledged that the game and its methods are constantly evolving, leading him to the decision to take a step back from his scouting responsibilities. Despite this change, he emphasized his excitement about watching the club achieve great success in the future and expressed his desire to remain connected to the game in some capacity.
Pleat’s history with Tottenham dates back to 1986 when he was appointed as the club’s manager. During his first season in charge, he guided the team to the FA Cup final before departing in October 1987. He later returned to Spurs in January 1998 as their first director of football, and he also served as caretaker manager on three separate occasions during his tenure.
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy expressed his gratitude for Pleat’s long-standing contribution to the club, praising his extensive knowledge of the game and players. Levy stated that Pleat’s presence will be missed but expressed confidence that Pleat will continue to support and enjoy watching Tottenham’s matches across all levels.
As Pleat bids farewell to Tottenham, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on his significant impact on the club over the years. His dedication to the game and his valuable insights have left a lasting impression on the Tottenham community. Moving forward, Pleat’s departure marks the end of an era at the club, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure as Tottenham continues to strive for success in the future.
