Merson insists Spurs fans won't tolerate manner of Newcastle and Fulham defeats

Paul Merson believes that Ange Postecoglou will need to address one or two things next season to ensure he enjoys the full backing of Tottenham fans.

The Spurs boss immediately won over supporters upon his arrival from Celtic last summer, with an attacking brand of football fans craved. Results were also impressive, with the side top of the Premier League after 10 games.

However, a mix of injuries and poor form has seen Spurs come back down to earth and the side are currently in a fight to secure the final Champions League qualification spot.

Merson, who made 397 appearances for their rivals Arsenal, commended the Australian's work but cautioned that certain chastening results this term would not be tolerated by fans next year.

‘I they’re miles too open [to be a top team].' He said on Sky Sports. 'I think he’s done great and I like him [Ange Postecoglou], I really do.

'As a neutral, Tottenham are great to watch. I don’t think he gets away with it this season. I think the fans are riding along with it this season because they’ve been so bad and so poor over the last however many years.

'He’s been a breath of fresh air. Next season, they won’t have that, going to Fulham and getting ripped apart, then going to Newcastle not giving a fight.

'It’s going to be a lot different. I think this season, it’s excitement because it’s great, it’s entertaining, but not next season.’

Spurs are not only hoping to make up ground on Aston Villa, who dropped two points in Saturday night's 2-2 draw with Chelsea, but also scupper the title ambitions of their north London rivals Arsenals.

The sides played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their first meeting at the Emirates in September.