Tottenham players should shoulder blame for heavy defeats, insists Dawson

Tottenham captain Michael Dawson has issued an apology to fans for the team's 'unacceptable' performances, insisting the blame should fall solely on him and his teammates.

Ex-manager Andre Villas-Boas was axed after less than 18 months in charge following Spurs' disastrous 5-0 defeat to Liverpool, not long after their 6-0 thrashing at Manchester City.

But ahead of Tottenham's League Cup tie against West Ham, the captain defended his former boss and insisted the players should shoulder the responsibility.

"It's been a difficult few days for all of us, what with the result here against Liverpool followed by Andre's departure," said the Spurs defender.

"He was well liked in the dressing room and would always want things to work out, but it just wasn't meant to be. We wish him well.

"I know Andre came out after our heavy defeats to Manchester City and Liverpool and said that he took full responsibility, but when the team on the pitch loses in that fashion, the players have to stand up and realise ourselves that the performances haven't been acceptable.

"Those results were painful, the way we lost and the goals we conceded.

"As a defender and as captain of this club, I look at myself first, but all players have to take responsibility for what has happened.

"The lads were devastated after Sunday's game, of course. Losing any football match is disappointing, it happens to every team.

"But to lose 5-0 at home and 6-0 at City is not good enough. All I can do is apologise to those who turned out to support us."