In a recent press conference, Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham, discussed the challenges his team has faced in the run-up to their upcoming match against West Ham. Despite a series of injuries and mixed results, Postecoglou expressed confidence in his team’s character and resilience.
Dealing with Injuries and Testing Times
Postecoglou acknowledged the tough period his team has been through, highlighting the injuries that have piled up. “It’s fair to say, not by design, but you kind of test all these things through tough periods,” he said. The manager praised the players’ application and commitment, noting the opportunity for peripheral figures like Alfie Dorrington to step up.
The Return of Key Players
The return of Cristian Romero from suspension was a significant talking point. Postecoglou emphasised Romero’s importance as a recognised centre back and a leader in the group. He also touched on the absence of key players like Micky Van de Ven, Eric Dier, and Ashley Phillips, underlining the challenges faced in forming a solid defence.
James Maddison’s Injury and Recovery
When asked about James Maddison’s injury, Postecoglou humorously questioned Maddison’s medical qualifications, preferring to leave the prognosis to the medical team. He remains optimistic about Maddison’s recovery but did not commit to a specific timeline.
Preparing for West Ham
Reflecting on the pre-season game against West Ham, Postecoglou admitted that it feels like a lifetime ago and that the team’s current focus is on their best performance levels. He acknowledged the quality and threats in West Ham’s side and the need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
Player Morale and Consistency
The manager observed a natural fluctuation in player morale following results but emphasised the importance of maintaining a consistent approach. He praised the team’s resilience, especially in the second half against Manchester City, and the belief in their style of play.
Team News and Updates
Postecoglou provided updates on various players. He mentioned that Cristian is available for selection, Pape is back in training, and Richie got a few minutes in the previous game. However, he also noted that Eric Dier hasn’t trained for over a week, indicating ongoing challenges with player availability.
The Importance of Fringe Players
The manager expressed satisfaction with fringe players stepping up, highlighting their importance, especially given the current necessity. He stressed the value of keeping all players engaged, regardless of their playing time.
Looking Ahead
Despite the recent lack of wins, Postecoglou remains focused on the bigger picture, emphasising the manner of play over mere results. He conveyed a sense of urgency in returning to winning ways but maintained that performance levels are crucial for sustained success.
As Tottenham prepares to face West Ham, Postecoglou’s words reflect a team grappling with challenges but not devoid of hope and determination. The resilience shown in recent weeks, coupled with the return of key players, could be pivotal in their upcoming fixture.
