Ange Postecoglou has dismissed the dreaded Spursy jibe as “schoolyard stuff” as he urged his players to embrace the difficulties they face, avoid looking for excuses and trust his approach.
In their last five games in the Premier League, Tottenham has lost the lead and only earned one point from those matches. Their most recent disappointment was on Thursday when they were defeated 2-1 at home by West Ham.
The word that starts with “S” has been mentioned repeatedly, and it seems like it was bound to happen. As Postecoglou gets ready for the upcoming game against Newcastle on Sunday, his main point is not to avoid facing the truth. There are valid reasons for our performance, starting with the many injuries we have. Son Heung-min’s back injury from the West Ham game may cause him to miss out, and eight other players will definitely not be able to play.
Swansea’s interest in hiring Chris Davies as their assistant coach is causing a distraction. Tottenham declined Swansea’s offer on Thursday, but Postecoglou has not ruled out the possibility of Davies leaving.
The coach aimed to redirect the team’s attention inward, encouraging both himself and the players to focus on what they can control. This involves displaying more confidence when attempting to score. Tottenham’s struggle to capitalize on a higher percentage of their opportunities has been a recurring issue throughout the season, not just in the last five games.
“The tag of ‘Spursy’ is childish,” stated Postecoglou. “What is important to me is that this club has not achieved any victories in the past 15 years. That is the truth. Regardless of what labels others may give it, that should not be our driving force. If we want to achieve success, we must have a defined plan and remain committed to it.”
“I have gone through this scenario multiple times and therefore have a clear understanding of what needs to be done. However, for many of these individuals, it may be their first time experiencing it. It is common for there to be obstacles in the first season. It is important for players to navigate through them and realize that they have overcome them, proving that they are capable of handling such challenges.”
“I am aware of the steps we must take to overcome this challenge and I have a clear understanding of what lies ahead. It is essential that they discover this on their own. The journey ahead will never be effortless, so it is crucial for them to fully accept and embrace this aspect of it.”
As an elite athlete or part of an elite team, there will never be a time where excuses are not available. The choice is yours whether to let them hinder your goals or use them as motivation to grow stronger.
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Postecoglou was questioned about the potential burden of the “Spursy” label on the players. He responded, “It should not affect the new players as they have no past experiences.” It is difficult for me to determine if it affects those who have been with the team, but I do not dwell on it or bring it up in terms of history.
To alter how others see you, there is only one method. You cannot expect people to change their opinions of you simply because you wish it. You must provide them with a reason to do so. I am here because the club desired to alter its direction. From the very beginning, I made it clear that change means true transformation. If this involves shifting perspectives due to lingering wounds from the past, then we must eliminate them.
Postecoglou mentioned a pivotal moment in the summer of 2021 when Eddie Howe, who will manage the opposing team on Sunday, rejected the Celtic job. As a result, the Scottish club chose Postecoglou, whose accomplishments there ultimately brought him to Tottenham.
“There’s probably been no bigger decision in me being here today than Eddie knocking back the Celtic job,” he said. “I haven’t thanked him. I probably should.”
Davies is in a comparable situation. Tottenham does not desire to let go of Postecoglou’s greatly regarded assistant, but it seems improbable that they would impede his departure.
“I had a short conversation with Chris and he is aware that we have a busy week ahead, so our main priority will be on that,” stated Postecoglou. “As far as I am concerned, whatever happens, it is ultimately up to Chris to decide his next steps. The club will handle it from there.”
Source: theguardian.com
