“He’s probably not the right fit” – Ange suggests Spurs forward may leave soon as part of tough new strategy.
Ange Postecoglou declares he no longer has ‘time’ to worry about players’ feelings as he battles to save his job.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou is facing mounting pressure, with his team managing just one win in their last eight matches across all competitions.
Displeasure among supporters has become evident as Spurs struggle to find form.
On Thursday, Spurs drew 1-1 away against Rangers in the Europa League. Dejan Kulusevski scored the equaliser after Hamza Igamane had given the hosts the lead.
Kulusevski’s introduction at halftime replaced Timo Werner, who delivered a poor first-half performance.
Werner failed to create any chances, managed just one shot, and struggled across various metrics.
He completed none of his three dribbles, misfired both of his attempted crosses, and lost all five of his ground duels.
Postecoglou was blunt in his post-match assessment of Werner, describing the German’s performance as “unacceptable.”
This sparked questions about whether the manager regretted his remarks.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Southampton, Postecoglou stood by his comments.
He clarified: “No, it wasn’t criticism. It was an assessment. If we played poorly, we played poorly.
“With Timo, it wasn’t about whether he played well or not. It was a difficult game. I’m asking 18-year-olds to take on massive roles, so I need senior players to step up.
Timo is an international and a Champions League winner. There’s a level of application and performance required, and he didn’t meet it.
“Taking him off at halftime was statement enough. Just as I hold myself accountable for poor team performances, it’s no different for the players.
My comments weren’t criticism; they were an honest evaluation. On a challenging night like that, we needed more.”
When asked how Werner responded to his remarks, Postecoglou was forthright.
He emphasized his commitment to collective improvement and made it clear he wouldn’t soften his approach to spare players’ feelings.
“I don’t have time for that kind of thing anymore. We’re in a fight—collectively,” said Postecoglou.
“I’m not going to tiptoe around bruised egos. If this football club wants to be successful, everyone needs to step up.
“We’re down to the bare bones with just 15 fit players. In some positions, we only have two options.
If someone in the dressing room is fit and able but feels they need something extra right now, they’re probably not the right type of player for us.
“I need players who, like some showed last night, understand the situation we’re in. If someone can’t give extra now, it tells me a lot about where they stand.
At this point, we can’t afford passengers.”
The Spurs boss also hinted that players unwilling to rise to the occasion could see their futures at the club questioned.
His firm stance reflects the urgency of the situation as Postecoglou aims to steady Tottenham’s season and secure better results amid growing scrutiny.
