Glenn Hoddle commends Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou as a valuable asset for successfully turning around a previously negative atmosphere at the club.
Ange Postecoglou expressed his dissatisfaction with referee Michael Oliver’s lenient approach after Everton twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Tottenham. The Australian manager has received praise from Glenn Hoddle for his impact in his debut season at Spurs.
Postecoglou, who joined the club from Celtic last summer, immediately impressed with his attacking style of play. Despite initial concerns about the absence of Harry Kane, who moved to Bayern Munich, Tottenham began the season unbeaten in 10 games and topped the Premier League table.
However, the team’s form dipped in the middle of the campaign due to several key injuries. Nevertheless, Postecoglou remained committed to his attacking philosophy, which marked a significant departure from the managerial reigns of Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo, and Antonio Conte.
Hoddle commended Postecoglou for liberating the squad and removing the pressure from the players. He praised the manager for his open style of play, pushing full-backs into midfield, and adopting an aggressive approach.
Hoddle acknowledged that there are vulnerabilities in Tottenham’s high-pressing and high-defending tactics, but he highlighted the confidence that Postecoglou instills in his players. The manager encourages them to play without fear, take risks, and not be burdened by mistakes. Hoddle emphasized that this approach has been a major asset for the team.
Hoddle also praised Brennan Johnson, one of Tottenham’s new signings this season. The 22-year-old forward, who joined from Nottingham Forest, has made a significant impact off the bench, scoring four goals and providing seven assists. Hoddle commended Johnson’s ability to read the game both on and off the ball, highlighting his versatility to play on either the left or right side.
Joe Cole, another pundit on TNT Sports, echoed Hoddle’s admiration for Postecoglou and identified James Maddison as the key player in Tottenham’s midfield. Cole described Maddison as instrumental in the team’s strong start to the season before an ankle injury sidelined him for over two months. Cole expressed his excitement for the match and praised the strength of Tottenham’s midfield, emphasizing Maddison’s exceptional abilities.
Overall, the English sports journalists have lauded Postecoglou for his impact at Tottenham, praising his attacking style of play, his ability to instill confidence in his players, and the performances of new signings like Brennan Johnson. They also highlighted the importance of James Maddison in the team’s midfield.