Fears for Guglielmo Vicario emerge as ‘horrific’ scenes unfold at Tottenham

Tottenham trail Fulham 2-0 at half-time, and if not for Micky van de Ven, the situation could be much worse for Thomas Frank’s side. Kenny Tete struck first for the visitors inside four minutes, before Harry Wilson capitalised on an empty net with a long-range finish.

Boos immediately echoed around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, leaving Frank with a major decision to make. Spurs have barely found their rhythm, and although the scoreline reflects their struggles, much of the damage stems from Guglielmo Vicario. Tete’s opener was avoidable, but Wilson’s goal came directly from a costly error by the goalkeeper.

Vicario tried to dribble out after receiving a long ball, only to send a poor clearance straight back to Fulham, who punished the mistake through Wilson.

Tottenham’s first-half stats vs Fulham:

58% possession

0.07 xG

Two shots (none on target)

One big chance missed

17 crosses (none completed)

Supporters instantly voiced their frustration, echoed by commentary on Sky Sports Main Event. Bill Leslie described it as “horrific scenes at the back for Tottenham,” while Alan Smith added: “Vicario’s getting absolute pelters from his own supporters in that South Stand.” Smith noted that the goalkeeper simply needed a solid clearance, but instead “made a complete hash of it,” raising questions about his confidence.

Tottenham now face an uphill battle, and Vicario shoulders much of the responsibility. At 1-0, the match was still recoverable; at 2-0, the challenge is far steeper.

Vicario has conceded 1.85 goals more than expected in his last two league outings, saving just four of Arsenal’s eight shots on target in the previous match. His season save rate sits at 70.4%, well below the Premier League average. Last season, he posted a 64.8% save percentage, highlighting long-standing issues when facing shots.

Based on current form, he is costing Tottenham more than he is helping them, and Frank must take that into account.