Tottenham Hotspur fans have been left furious over the decision to change the number of a forgotten Spurs defender.
Romanian international Radu Dragusin will now sport the number three jersey when he makes his comeback after a lengthy knee problem that has sidelined him since January's Europa League clash with Elfsborg.
The 23-year-old centre-half has switched from his previous number six, which he had worn since arriving at Tottenham from Genoa in January 2024.
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Radu Dragusin proudly showed off his change of number on Spurs social media
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The decision has provoked a negative response from supporters who consider the number three jersey inappropriate for a central defender, as it has historically been associated with left-backs.
"I feel like this number represents me," Dragusin told the club's media department. "I have been wearing it in the national team since three years ago and I just feel it really represents who I am someone who is always ready to give everything for the team."
He added: "Now, I'm really proud to wear it in north London."
Social media reactions ranged from dismissive to critical, with one supporter labelling the move "utter woke nonsense" whilst another declared "the game's gone."
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"A CB with the 3 shirt? I hate it," complained one fan, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the unconventional choice.
Perhaps most tellingly, another supporter suggested it was a "weird way to announce we're not buying cover for Udogie again," highlighting concerns about the club's transfer plans.
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Radu Dragusin also plays with the number three for Romania
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The shirt number controversy comes at a particularly sensitive time for Tottenham's left-back position, with Destiny Udogie absent from the club's pre-season tour of Asia due to injury.
In the Nigerian's absence, right-back Djed Spence impressed when deployed on the opposite flank during Thursday's 1-0 victory against Arsenal, whilst Ben Davies occupied the role in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Newcastle.
Centre-back Micky van de Ven has previously filled in at left-back when required, including in matches against Manchester City last season.
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With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, supporters appear increasingly resigned to the prospect that manager Thomas Frank will not bring in specialist cover for the position.
Dragusin's departure from the number six has paved the way for new arrival Joao Palhinha to claim the jersey following his season-long loan move from Bayern Munich on Sunday.
Joao Palhinha has taken on Radu Dragusin's number six
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The 30-year-old Portuguese midfielder revealed the personal significance behind his choice, explaining: "It means a lot for me because of my grandfather it's the day that he left our family and since my grandfather died, if I have a look, a lot of important things in my life have happened on this day, with the number six."
Palhinha could make his first appearance in Thursday's friendly against his parent club in Munich, before potentially making his competitive debut in Wednesday's European Super Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain.