1987–89 Tottenham Hotspur Home Shirt Authentication Guide
The 1987–89 Tottenham Hotspur Home Shirt is an iconic example of late 80s football fashion. With its bold graphics and classic club aesthetic, it’s a must-have for vintage collectors. This guide will help you verify the authenticity of original shirts from this era. <
Shirt Overview
- Team: Tottenham Hotspur FC
- Season: 1987–89
- Type: Home Shirt
- Manufacturer: Hummel
- Sponsor: Holsten
- Competition: English First Division
- Sleeve Style: Short sleeve (some long sleeve variants exist)
- Fit: Loose 80s fit with dropped shoulders
Design Details
- Base Color: White
- Graphics: Sublimated abstract navy chevrons across upper chest and shoulders
- Collar: V-neck with navy trim
- Sleeves: Navy cuff trim with chevron pattern continuation
- Manufacturer Logo: Hummel chevrons sublimated on sleeves, embroidered Hummel logo on chest
- Club Crest: Fully embroidered old-style cockerel crest on left chest
- Sponsor: “Holsten” printed in navy blue (check for fading or cracking in vintage pieces)
- Material: Shiny polyester with a soft texture—common in late 80s football shirts
Variants and Notes
- 1987–88 vs 1988–89: Identical design used across both seasons
- Long Sleeve Version: Rare; features same chevron graphics down the sleeve
- Fake Warning Signs:
- Printed crests (should always be embroidered)
- Incorrect material (too thick or cotton-based)
- Misaligned or low-resolution sponsor print
- Reproductions: Modern retro replicas have been produced—check for modern size tags and licensing stamps
Player Info
| Player | Appearances (All Competitions) |
|---|---|
| Chris Waddle | 48 |
| Clive Allen | 40 |
| Paul Allen | 41 |
| Gary Mabbutt | 50 |
| Paul Gascoigne | 39 (joined 1988–89 season) |
| Mitchell Thomas | 44 |
Season Summary
The 1987–89 era was one of transition for Tottenham Hotspur, marked by managerial changes and some memorable player performances. The team finished 13th in 1987–88 and improved to 6th in 1988–89, bolstered by the arrival of Paul Gascoigne. The Holsten-sponsored home shirt became a defining visual of the late 80s Spurs identity.
Chris Waddle and Clive Allen were key attacking threats, while Gary Mabbutt anchored the defense. Despite a lack of silverware, these seasons laid the groundwork for the exciting football that would follow in the early 90s.
The 1987–89 home shirt is now a beloved retro piece—valued for its bold Hummel design and historical significance. Original examples in good condition are becoming increasingly rare, so authentication is key for any collector.
