Postecoglou Discusses Tottenham’s Performance and Werner’s Half-Time Substitution

Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou offered his perspective on the Europa League draw against Rangers, stating: “A tough game as expected, with the atmosphere in the stadium. I thought the first half was pretty tight with no clear-cut chances for either side.” He continued, reflecting on the second half: “When they score straight after half-time, the energy levels obviously go up and it’s going to be a tough one to claw back, but I thought we worked our way back in well.” Postecoglou credited player changes and key moments, adding: “I thought the substitutes made a difference and we scored a good goal. We had other good moments and it was a great save by Fraser [Forster] at the end.” He emphasized the significance of the result, concluding: “In the context of where we are in Europe, it is an important point.” The coach acknowledged the team’s overall display, noting: “We weren’t anywhere near our best, which I think is fair to say, and at the same time, we’re in a period of games where we’re grinding through at the moment.” He also highlighted the squad’s condition: “Obviously [we are playing] with a fairly depleted squad. So, in the context of that, in the end, I think it was a good outcome for us.” Addressing the performance of Timo Werner, who was replaced at half-time, Postecoglou commented: “He wasn’t playing anywhere near the level he should.” He further stated, “When you’ve got 18-year-olds, it’s not acceptable to me.” Postecoglou revealed his direct communication with the player: “I said that to Timo he’s a German international. In the moment we’re in right now – it’s not like we’ve got many options, I need everyone to at least be going out there and trying to give the best of themselves.” He concluded by stressing the need for collective effort: “His performance in the first half wasn’t acceptable. We need everybody, including him, to be contributing because we don’t have the depth to leave people out if they perform poorly.” Postecoglou reiterated his expectations for experienced players: “I expect a level of performance from some of the senior guys, and tonight wasn’t that.”