Tottenham’s Danny Rose his own worst enemy once again

Controversy follows Tottenham’s Danny Rose everywhere, with the Englishman this time getting into a heated verbal joust in training with Jose Mourinho.  

Upset at not being selected for the Watford match, Rose aired his grievances during training. Always the victim, Rose once again showed his oft-witnessed nefarious side. Even though Mourinho says ‘he is part of my plans,’ it’s obvious the Portuguese gaffer wants rid of the polarizing Englishman.

But Rose has no intentions of going quietly, steadfast on seeing out his contract no matter how untenable things get. If Rose truly was fully fit for the Watford match, it proves just how far he’s fallen from grace. Japhet Tanganga, a 20-year-old rookie centre back who was played out of position, was preferred to the veteran. It would also mean that Mourinho felt he had to make an excuse to justify his exclusion.

It’s not Rose’s passion and combative spirit that irks me, but the way he goes about remonstrating. Always in grandiose fashion, Rose, like the Sun and Mirror, has a penchant for the dramatic and sensational.

Rose either professes his grievances directly to the media or, like a petulant child, decries his treatment as publicly as possible. One would expect a 29-year-old professional to act with decorum and restraint. Pull the gaffer aside in the locker room, go to his office and have a candid conversation with him. Don’t use Hotspur Way as a stage for your final act.

Had he conducted himself over the years like other consummate Hotspur alumni, his loyal, lengthy tenure at Spurs would have been enshrined in glory. Unfortunately his tendency to shoot from the hip, along with his cantankerous demeanour, have tarnished his reputation. And have made him a considerably worse footballer.

I’m all for those who stand up for themselves and tell it like it is. But there’s a way to communicate your frustrations. While Mourinho is partially culpable for their on-field spat, Rose could have taken the higher ground and brought up the injustice behind close doors.

But he’s never been one to show restraint. It could be a long 18 months for Rose if he does decide to stay true to his word and see out his contract. Already ostracized by the new gaffer, this incident surely won’t help the enigmatic Englishman’s cause.