Ange’s Pre-Match Liverpool Press Conference: Key Takeaways
In the lead-up to Tottenham’s highly anticipated clash with Liverpool, Spurs’ manager Ange took to the press room to address a series of questions. Here’s a breakdown of the key moments from the press conference:
1. Team News and Player Updates:
Question: “The team news please and the latest on Maddison and Sonny?”
Ange’s Response: “Brennan will miss out, nothing too serious but might not be right for this week. Maddison and Sonny trained today. They’re a bit sore after last week, so we’ll see how they pull up.”
2. Reflection on the North London Derby:
Question: “A lot of people said we’ll see where Spurs are after the North London Derby. How proud are you of the team?”
Ange’s Answer: “It was player-driven. They embraced what we’re doing. It wasn’t euphoric in the dressing room. We knew Arsenal would be tough, but we felt we held our own.”
3. Son Heung-min’s Role and Influence:
Question: “Son has been made Club Captain and is a great ambassador for the club. Do you see him as essential?”
Ange’s Response: “He always has been essential for this football club. He feels a real responsibility, especially with Harry gone. He’s the senior figure now and wants to guide this young group.”
4. The Ryder Cup and Other Sports:
Question: “Have you enjoyed the start of the Ryder Cup?”
Ange’s Answer: “Had it on in the background. I’d lean towards the Europeans, so I’m happy.”
5. Facing Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp:
Question: “Liverpool is on the longest unbeaten run in Europe’s major leagues. How do you rate them and their manager?”
Ange’s Response: “They’ve been a very good football team for a while. It’s a great test for us. Jurgen is an outstanding manager who has made an impact on the competition.”
6. Ange’s Connection to Liverpool:
Question: “You were a Liverpool fan growing up. Why Liverpool?”
Ange’s Answer: “It was the ’70s. You went one or two ways, Liverpool or Man U. A couple of my best mates went for Man U, so I went the other way.”
7. The ‘Dad’ Reference:
Question: “Quite a few players have described you as a ‘dad’ to them. How do you feel about that?”
Ange’s Response: “If it’s about being a guide to them in all aspects of life, then I try to do that. I have the benefit of experience.”
8. Fantasy Football and James Madison:
Question: “Should I put James Madison in my fantasy football team tomorrow?”
Ange’s Answer: “You can do whatever you like, zero interest to me.”
9. The ‘Spursy’ Tag and Team Resilience:
Question: “James Madison said Tottenham has lost the ‘Spursy’ tag. How do you feel about that?”
Ange’s Response: “The lads have shown a fair bit of resilience this year. This club has been at the top for a while. It’s about our own development.”
10. The Unique Challenge of Liverpool:
Question: “What makes Liverpool such a different team from everyone else?”
Ange’s Response: “The tempo at which they played, both offensively and defensively, was another level. Jurgen introduced a new style of play.”
Conclusion:
Ange’s press conference provided a deep insight into Tottenham’s preparations and mindset ahead of the Liverpool clash. With both teams in top form, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
