Relegation-threatened Tottenham to begin pre-season tour with New Zealand trip

Tottenham find themselves in a tense Premier League battle to avoid relegation, and they are now on the hunt for their third head coach this season following the departure of Igor Tudor on Sunday, just seven matches into his tenure.

The north London club are positioned just one point clear of the drop zone with seven fixtures still to play.

As part of their pre-season schedule, they will take on Auckland FC on 26 July at Eden Park, according to the team.

This marks Tottenham's return to New Zealand after their visit in 1976.

"No matter the outcome for Tottenham this term, they continue to be a hugely prominent club with supporters around the globe, and we are thrilled to welcome them to Auckland," commented Auckland FC's managing director, Nick Becker.

The Spurs have already confirmed matches against Sydney FC and their London opponents Chelsea in Australia, scheduled for 29 July and 1 August, respectively.

Rumours connect the empty coaching position to ex-Brighton and Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi, though speculation also points to a potential move for Sean Dyche to steer the side away from danger.