- David Pleat has departed from Tottenham as part of the club’s overhaul of traditional scouting personnel.
- Pleat has held multiple roles at Spurs throughout his association with the team.
- Technical director Johan Lange is prioritizing a data-driven approach to scouting.
David Pleat’s extensive connection with Tottenham Hotspur has concluded as the club’s technical director Johan Lange continues to reshape the scouting structure.
Lange has effectively removed nearly all traditional scouts from Spurs, opting for a recruitment strategy that heavily relies on data and agents, similar to his approach at Aston Villa.
At 79 years of age, Pleat has served as a consultant scout since 2010 and played a crucial role in the acquisition of Dele Alli from Milton Keynes Dons.
His departure marks the conclusion of a variety of roles he undertook at the North London club. He initially managed the squad in 1986 and later resumed as director of football for over six years, during which he undertook three interim management roles.
Pleat’s initial stint in a coaching capacity at the club was in May 1986, where he led Spurs to a third-place finish in the old First Division and an FA Cup final before departing a year later.
David Pleat’s long association with Tottenham Hotspur has reached an end after he left the club
‘I want to express my gratitude to David for his vast contributions over the years and in numerous capacities,’ said Spurs chairman Daniel Levy in a statement from the club.
His depth of knowledge about the game and its players is remarkable and will always remain invaluable.
‘I know he will continue to enjoy following our matches at all levels.’
Pleat described his time at Spurs as a ‘significant part’ of his existence in a brief statement as he bid farewell with the approach of the new Premier League season.
“Football has been my life and will always be. Spurs has played a vital role in that. However, given the evolution of the game and its methodologies, it’s time for me to step back from my scouting duties,’ he remarked.
‘I look forward to witnessing the club’s success in the upcoming years. I hope to maintain my involvement in the sport,’ Pleat added.
Earlier in May, Tottenham also let go of several other scouts, including senior scout Ian Broomfield.
