Former Tottenham Hotspur chairman Lord Sugar has delivered a characteristically blunt verdict on his old club's current season, suggesting the entire squad deserves the same treatment as unsuccessful candidates on his television show The Apprentice.
Scathing Assessment of Spurs Performance
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror at the official launch event for The Apprentice's 20th anniversary series, the business magnate and lifelong Spurs fan did not hold back in his criticism. When asked about manager Thomas Frank's position following disappointing results, including an FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa and inconsistent Premier League form, Sugar redirected his ire toward the players.
"I have no comment really about that poor sod," Sugar said regarding Frank. "I think the whole bloody team should be fired. They're useless. Bloody useless. And they're getting close to the relegation zone."
Call for Investment Under New Ownership
The former owner, who sold his remaining shares in 2007 but remains a dedicated supporter watching matches from his Florida home, pointed to the club's recent change in leadership. With Daniel Levy having departed, control has passed to billionaire Joe Lewis.
"It's now in the hands of Joe Lewis, who's a multi billionaire, and he needs to start throwing some money, some real money at it to get the top players," Sugar asserted. "If he throws more money at it, they'll do well, I guess. Seems to be the only way that all these clubs do, is buy players for £100million each, or something."
The Apprentice's Milestone Anniversary
The interview occurred as Sugar celebrates two decades of his hit BBC business reality series, which has just been renewed for another three years. When questioned whether hosting the show keeps him feeling youthful, the 79-year-old responded with typical humour.
"Part of the contract is the BBC has got to provide me with an electronic Zimmer frame!" he joked. "Three years takes me to about 82 I suppose, but I'll carry on as long as the BBC want me to. I'm a very fit person."
Dramatic Start to New Series
The 20th series launches with an expanded cohort of twenty candidates competing for Sugar's £250,000 investment, beginning with a high-stakes challenge filmed in Hong Kong. Sugar revealed the expensive overseas shoot did not proceed smoothly.
"Having spent a fortune flying 20 people out to Hong Kong, not to mention 20 production people and myself, yeah it was disappointing," he admitted, noting candidates received a fierce reprimand that was edited from the final broadcast.
Subsequent tasks will include creating children's books, live television sales, and hosting corporate events in Egypt's Red Sea resort of El Gouna.
Baroness Brady on Show's Enduring Appeal
Advisor Baroness Karren Brady reflected on the programme's remarkable longevity and evolving nature. "It's incredible to think we've reached the 20th series," she said. "That's a real milestone for any television show."
Brady highlighted how the series has adapted to contemporary business landscapes: "The business world has changed massively since series one, and the show has changed with it. We've got more entrepreneurial candidates, they're more digitally savvy, they are more aware of social impact and innovation."
She emphasised the programme's real-world impact: "It's not just about great TV, but it's launched real businesses with real success stories. We've helped shine a light on ambition, hard work, and resilience."
The Apprentice Series 20 begins on Thursday at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
