Tottenham Hotspur's striker shortage was laid bare in a goalless Premier League draw at Nottingham Forest on September 5. The result earned Spurs their first point of the season but extended their goal drought, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.
Roberto De Zerbi's side failed to register a single shot on target at the City Ground. This was the first time that had happened to Tottenham in a league match since April 2022. The club's significant summer spending, which exceeded £300 million, did not include the acquisition of a recognised centre-forward, a decision that is now under intense scrutiny.
The core issue is a glaring lack of options up front. Tottenham's only out-and-out striker is Dominic Solanke, who came off the bench against Forest and had a late chance. The club's top scorer from the previous campaign, Richarlison, was omitted from the Premier League squad entirely. Manager Roberto De Zerbi received strong backing in the market, but the focus was on attacking midfielders and wingers. Savio and Omar Marmoush joined from Manchester City, with Marmoush missing a good opportunity before halftime by dragging his shot wide.
Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye was a target but ultimately signed for Manchester City instead. The failure to address the number nine position leaves the squad dangerously thin.
Roberto De Zerbi acknowledged the problem in the final third while defending the team's overall performance. "I think we played well but in the last third we have to improve," the Tottenham boss said. He also provided an update on new signing Mykhailo Mudryk, who joined on a season-long loan from Chelsea on September 1 and made a substitute appearance. "He’s not ready yet. He’s working to reach the best physical condition. He needs time, he needs work," De Zerbi explained.
The clean sheet was a positive, coming after 3-0 and 2-0 defeats to Brentford and Newcastle United. However, the attacking statistics are alarming. Tottenham last failed to score in three consecutive Premier League games back in November 2021.
The situation is stark. As of September 6, 2026, Tottenham Hotspur are 20th in the Premier League with 0 points from three games, having lost their first two. Their goal difference stands at -5, with zero goals scored and five conceded. They are already six points behind early leaders Manchester City. The full league standings show the scale of the early challenge.
Attention now turns to a key home fixture against Everton on September 12. The Toffees are currently 8th in the table, presenting another difficult test. A positive result is vital to build momentum and climb away from the relegation zone. The team's upcoming fixtures include a run of games that will define their early season.
In the match at Forest, the home side had a goal by Neco Williams disallowed after a VAR review for handball, with referee Craig Pawson overturning the on-field decision. Forest manager Oliver Glasner commented on the incident afterwards. Forest themselves had taken two points from their opening three games. Tottenham's next task is to find a cutting edge before their meeting with Everton at home.
