Richarlison publicly backs Duncan Ferguson’s criticism of Tottenham squad decision

Richarlison has publicly endorsed Duncan Ferguson’s call for Tottenham to bring him back into the fold, turning the striker’s exclusion from the Premier League squad into a more visible dispute with manager Roberto De Zerbi. Tottenham are 19th after taking three points from their first six league games.

The forward shared Ferguson’s comments on Instagram Stories and added: “Thanks, Duncan Ferguson. You are right!” Ferguson, who briefly managed Richarlison at Everton, had argued that Tottenham needed all their attacking options while struggling and that De Zerbi should bring the striker back.

The squad decision leaves out last season’s leading scorer for Spurs. Richarlison scored 11 Premier League goals in 32 appearances, also registering four assists across 1,957 minutes, according to the figures reported by Spurs Web. His return gives context to Ferguson’s appeal, though it does not explain why Tottenham left him out.

De Zerbi addressed the situation last month, saying he was not the person who decided to omit Richarlison from the league squad. He referred to the club’s dealings with the player over the previous 45 days and to Richarlison’s behaviour during that period. De Zerbi also said he was sorry the situation had unfolded as it did and believed it could have ended differently.

That account has not settled the disagreement. Spurs Web reported in the summer that Richarlison’s camp was considering legal action to terminate his contract after rejecting multiple offers to leave. The report does not establish what happened between the player and the club, but Richarlison’s public agreement with Ferguson makes clear he disputes his treatment.

Tottenham’s next match is at home to Coventry City on Monday, 19 October. With Spurs winless after six league games, the decision is not just a personal issue: Ferguson’s argument is that the side should have every attacking option available as it tries to improve its position. Richarlison’s post has brought that question back into public view just as Tottenham need results.