Spurs axe Stellini and put faith in Mason after Toon thrashing

Tottenham interim manager Cristian Stellini has left the club following Sunday's 6-1 thrashing at Newcastle.

The Italian had been placed in charge until the end of the season following Antonio Conte's departure last month, with Ryan Mason assisting first-team duties.

But Stellini, who was previously Conte's No2, has now vacated his position after only four games, with ex-midfielder Mason overseeing the club's six remaining Premier League fixtures.

In a statement realeased on the club's website, chairman Daniel Levy said: "Sunday's performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable. It was devastating to see. 

"We can look at many reasons why it happened and while myself, the board, the coaches and players must all take collective responsibility, ultimately the responsibility is mine. 

"Cristian will leave his current role along with his coaching staff. 

"Cristian stepped in at a difficult point in our season and I want to thank him for the professional manner in which he and his coaching staff have conducted themselves during such a challenging time. 

"We wish him and his staff well. Ryan Mason will take over head coach duties with immediate effect. Ryan knows the club and the players well. 

"We shall update further on his coaching staff in due course. 

"I met with the player committee today — the squad is determined to pull together to ensure the strongest possible finish to the season."

During Stellini's short-lived reign, Spurs also drew 1-1 with Everton, beat Brighton and lost 3-2 to Bournemouth, leaving the North Londoners six points adrift in the top-four race.

Mason, 31, will hope to galvanise his troops for the visit of Manchester United on Thursday night, ahead of a trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday.