Ange Postecoglou insists he is not worried about Tottenham’s quest for European football fading and insists he is focused on improving their fortunes against Everton.
Wednesday’s meager 2-1 defeat in the north London derby against Arsenal means Spurs have won just one of their last nine Premier League games, leaving them 14th in the table.
Despite being 13 points behind fifth-placed Chelsea, where Spurs finished last season, Postecoglou says he is not looking beyond Sunday’s trip to Goodison Park.
The Australian said: “I just don’t look at it like that. Ultimately we have to win football games and that starts on Sunday.
“We have to go to Everton, try to win and get three points, then focus on Europe after that. Beyond that at the moment, it is of no use to me or anyone else. other.
“Where we end up will be where we end up, whether it’s achieving our goals, our ambitions or failing, so time will tell.”
Ange gives an update on the team’s news before our trip to Goodison 🗞️ pic.twitter.com/AFTtAjzR8p
–Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 17, 2025
North London derby defeat
Postecoglou heavily criticized his players after Wednesday’s defeat at the Emirates, describing their performance and general form as “unacceptable”.
As for whether it was a mental or physical issue against their rivals, he said: “It could be a bit of both. Especially in the first half, we were far too passive in our approach, with and without the ball.
“We allowed Arsenal to dictate the game and set the tempo. We didn’t really manage to have the impact we wanted. The second half was a little better but it ended up costing us.
Asked if they were suffering after the result, the 59-year-old replied: “Look, I’m sure. As I said after the match, it is not acceptable for a club like ours to experience so many defeats in a season.
“Regardless of the context of the situation we find ourselves in, I feel as much about Wednesday night’s defeat, it was also the first half performance, I just felt we didn’t do ourselves justice.
“I’m sure the players are suffering. Whether the players suffer or I suffer, it doesn’t matter. The fans are suffering. We are the only ones who can change this.
Moyes back in the hot seat
Postecoglou faces new Everton returnee David Moyes this weekend and the Spurs boss had nothing but good things to say about the Scottish veteran.
He said: “No, not surprised, he has shown West Ham that he is still at the top of his game and is a fantastic manager.
“I think longevity is a measure of your ability, particularly when you think about his time in the Premier League itself and his impact at the clubs he’s been at.
“I’m delighted to see him again because it means I’m no longer the oldest in the Premier League. If we can get Roy (Hodgson) off a beach somewhere, I’ll be even happier.
“Happy to have him back. He’s also a great guy. I remember him contacting me when I was at Celtic a few years ago. David, the best guy, and it’s great to have him back.
Tottenham injury news
Tottenham’s form has not been improved by a series of injuries, particularly in defense, but say their defense is boosted by the imminent return of Ben Davies, who has been out since early December.
Postecoglou said: “There’s still a few from the middle of the week, just waiting to see how Brennan is, he’s got a bit of a sore calf, and Biss has been sore as well, so I’m just waiting for some information about them.
“Coming back, Ben Davies should be involved.”
