Hargreaves: Postecoglou must adapt his principles to retain Spurs job.

Ange Postecoglou’s Tactical Experiment Fails in Spurs Loss

In a surprising departure from his preferred 4-3-3 formation, Ange Postecoglou opted for a back-three setup in Tottenham’s match against Everton.

Ben Davies returned to the starting lineup, partnering with Archie Gray and Radu Dragusin in defense.

However, the tactical tweak proved disastrous, as Spurs found themselves trailing 3-0 at halftime against an Everton side that has struggled to score this season.

Despite a spirited second-half performance that saw Tottenham score twice, the match ended in a 3-2 defeat.

The result leaves Spurs languishing in 15th place in the Premier League, raising serious concerns about Postecoglou’s tenure.

Yet, reports on Monday indicated that Tottenham’s hierarchy does not intend to sack the 59-year-old immediately.

Instead, the club plans to back him in the January transfer window in hopes of turning the season around.

Owen Hargreaves Questions Postecoglou’s Approach

Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves criticized Postecoglou’s inability to adapt his tactics, particularly in light of injuries to key defensive players.

Speaking on Goal Rush via Optus Sport, Hargreaves emphasized the importance of flexibility, stating that top teams adjust their style based on the opposition.

“They’re just so open, Tottenham,” Hargreaves observed. “I know managers need a style of play, but there’s nothing wrong with tweaking it.

Some of the greatest teams ever adapted depending on the game and the opposition.”

Hargreaves highlighted Spurs’ vulnerabilities, pointing out that they continue to play open football despite missing virtually their entire first-choice defense.

He argued that Postecoglou must find a way to secure results if he wishes to retain his job.

“I feel for him because he tries to play football the right way,” Hargreaves added.

“But if you’re not getting results—and he knows this better than anyone—people are going to ask questions, and rightly so.

With the squad they have, even with injuries, they’ve got to find a way.”

Postecoglou’s Principles Under Scrutiny

Throughout his managerial career, Postecoglou has remained steadfast in his principles, which emphasize attacking football and building from the back.

He has made it clear that he will not abandon these ideals, even during challenging times.

Changing his approach, he believes, would undermine his credibility with the squad.

However, this season has been particularly unforgiving for the Australian coach.

A combination of injuries and the poor form of key players has created a “perfect storm” that threatens to derail his time at the club.

While Postecoglou’s commitment to his philosophy is admirable, it has left Spurs struggling to climb out of the bottom half of the table.

As pressure mounts, Postecoglou faces the daunting task of balancing his principles with the practical need to deliver results.

Without a turnaround, his future at Tottenham may be in jeopardy, despite the club’s current public backing.

The coming weeks could be decisive in determining whether Postecoglou can weather the storm or if his days at Spurs are numbered.