After deactivating his social media accounts following Tottenham’s loss to Bournemouth, Pedro Porro has spoken out about the criticism he has received from fans and pundits alike. The right-back has been on the receiving end of fans’ frustrations, and he has now marked his return to social media with a heartfelt message on Twitter which thanks those who have reached out and supported him during a difficult period in his life.
Porro’s message, when translated from Spanish, reads: “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only option you have left. Thanks for the loving messages.”
Porro’s recent struggles are reflective of Tottenham’s current form. The north Londoners sit fifth in the Premier League table, four points adrift of Newcastle, who also have a game in hand over Cristian Stellini’s side. Tottenham has won just two of their previous six games, and with Brighton and Aston Villa enjoying great veins of form, a Champions League qualification place looks increasingly unlikely.
Porro’s performances have come under scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, with former Tottenham boss Tim Sherwood recently criticizing the defender on Sky Sports. Sherwood said: “I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt because it’s his debut but Pedro Porro is so bad it’s unbelievable. I don’t want to keep picking on the kid, but he needs to be relieved of his duties. What I’m looking at is a player who doesn’t want to defend.”
In response to Sherwood’s attack, Porro said: “I have taken a lot of stick. There was the coach, I don’t remember [his name] now.”
Despite the criticism, Porro has the support of his former manager Pep Guardiola, who said: “Perfect to play five at the back. Last season we suffered when we played against Sporting. This season Tottenham vs Sporting, a good signing for Spurs. No, we didn’t think about re-signing. He was on the list, but we didn’t think about the buy-back. He decided to go to Spurs.”
Porro joined Tottenham from Sporting CP on January deadline day, and despite rumors of Manchester City holding the option to re-sign him, he chose to stay with Spurs. With the end of the season fast approaching, Tottenham and Porro will need to find a way to turn their fortunes around if they hope to secure a place in Europe’s premier competition next season.