Harry Kane mystified by Tottenham’s big-match woe
Striker Harry Kane accepts the moniker of chokers will be aimed at Tottenham until they remedy the underlying cause of their failure to deliver in the decisive moments.
A 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Wembley on Saturday condemned Spurs to an eighth successive FA Cup semi-final defeat, dating back to their victory over north London rivals Arsenal in 1991.
Its also means a fourth season under boss Mauricio Pochettino without a trophy despite an obvious on-field transition and likely Champions League qualification for a third consecutive year.
But masked by such illustrations of progress is a rapidly expanding charge sheet of Tottenham falling short in crunch matches across all competitions.
“It could be mentality. Weve been close but weve not been good enough in the final moments and thats the harsh lesson we have to learn,” said Kane, who has netted 41 goals for club and country this season.
“Theres obviously a reason why were falling short in the semi-finals or in the big games. I wouldnt be able to tell you exactly what it is but its frustrating; frustrating personally and frustrating for the team.
“I wouldnt say its a mental block. Like I say, its annoying and hard to put your finger on why it keeps happening but we have to find a way around it.
“Its going to hurt until the end of the season but we still have a job to do and we have to secure Champions League football, which is massive for the club going into the new stadium.”
Kane also disputed suggestions he was rushed back into action too soon after returning quicker than expected earlier this month – in Tottenhams Premier League win at Chelsea – following an ankle injury.
“Thats peoples opinion and people will always look for something to say when youre maybe not firing at your best,” added Kane. “But Ive still scored two in my last four so its not the worst in the world.
“When you set standards, people will look for things when youre not at them and Im the same. I want to be better, do better and wanted to do better [against United] but it wasnt to be.”
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