Tottenham manager gives reasons for Spurs man’s poor form

Thursday, February 21, 2013
8:15 AM

Andre Villas-Boas believes Emmanuel Adebayor’s disappointing form this season is down to injuries, the distraction of playing in the African Cup of Nations and the impressive performances of Jermain Defoe.

Togo hitman Adebayor has managed just three goals for Spurs this season and excelling last year while on loan from Manchester City.

Indeed, fans of his former clubs Arsenal and Man City have accused Adebayor in the past of giving up shortly after strong starts.

With four points separating Spurs and Arsenal in the hunt for Champions League qualification, and a place in the last 16 of the Europa League up for grabs this evening, Villas-Boas needs his striker back in form quick and he thinks the player will not be affected by the criticism that has come his way in recent weeks.

“I’m not sure if it bothers him,” the 35-year-old said.

“Players build their own motivations. Perceptions and media opinions can influence the public in general, but I think the player strives on his own motivation in the end.

“I think [he’s working as hard].

“The injuries he had and the African Nations Cup took him out for lots of games and Defoe’s form this year had been magnificent.”