AliousTroy Deeney has faced criticism following remarks he made about Antonín Kinský after the young goalkeeper endured a difficult start in Tottenham Hotspur’s 5–2 defeat to Atlético Madrid on Tuesday.
Spurs’ struggles continued at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, leaving them with a daunting task if they hope to reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper had a nightmare opening spell, conceding three goals within the first 15 minutes before being substituted by interim manager Igor Tudor. Kinský had been selected ahead of first-choice keeper Guglielmo Vicario, but the gamble quickly backfired.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel suggested the moment could follow Kinský throughout his career, saying the young player should at least have been left on the pitch until half-time. Another United legend, David de Gea, also showed support, posting on social media that only those who have played in goal truly understand how difficult the position can be and encouraging Kinský to keep his head up.
Meanwhile, ex-England and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart expressed sympathy while working as a pundit on TNT Sports. Hart said he felt heartbroken for the goalkeeper, acknowledging that the Champions League can be an unforgiving environment, especially during such a high-stakes match.
Deeney’s Comments Spark Backlash
However, former Watford FC captain Deeney took a different stance. Speaking on CBS Sports, he criticised Kinský for heading down the tunnel after being substituted instead of remaining on the bench with his teammates.
Deeney argued that when players are taken off under difficult circumstances, they should remain with the team and face the situation together. He stressed that the mistakes leading to the goals were Kinský’s responsibility and insisted that once the manager makes a substitution, the player should stay with the squad rather than leaving the touchline area.
Fans React on Social Media
Deeney’s remarks quickly drew strong reactions from football fans on social media platform X. Many supporters disagreed with his assessment, arguing that the young goalkeeper deserved space after such a difficult moment rather than being subjected to further pressure from the crowd.
Some fans accused Deeney of lacking empathy and failing to appreciate the emotional toll the situation might have taken on a 22-year-old making his Champions League debut.
When asked whether Kinský had done the right thing by not showing his emotions publicly, Deeney doubled down on his stance. He argued that the team was in a difficult situation together and that players should not take time away to gather themselves when the rest of the squad is battling on the pitch.
The comments divided opinion, with some supporters defending the idea of team unity, while others felt Deeney had overlooked the human aspect of the situation and the psychological impact such a moment could have on a young player.
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