Ange Postecoglou has conceded that a significant portion of Tottenham supporters have lost belief in his leadership. He also admitted he would have approached the season`s beginning differently given the team`s current struggles.
Tottenham`s season has been challenging, as they currently sit in the lower half of the league table. Their cup runs also ended in disappointment, with a Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Liverpool and an FA Cup exit in the fourth round against Aston Villa.
Despite these setbacks, there`s still a chance for a successful end to the campaign if they can triumph in the Europa League. They are set to face Eintracht Frankfurt at home in the first leg of the quarter-finals next Thursday.
However, Postecoglou is aware that he no longer has the full confidence of many fans who are disappointed after the initial optimism of his first season.
The Spurs manager stated, “There`s no question that a large segment of Tottenham fans have probably lost some faith and trust in our direction.”
“They were encouraged by last season, but unfortunately, this year`s results haven`t matched those expectations.”
“I remain very optimistic about the potential of our squad. I believe they will experience significant development as we navigate through these tough times.”
“Overcoming adversity can be a powerful unifying force for a group.”
Postecoglou has had to manage a severely depleted squad due to injuries, with numerous players suffering from muscle problems.
In an interview, he mentioned he regrets pushing his players too hard at the beginning of the season.
The former manager explained, “We likely made errors at the season`s outset. Modern football presents increasing demands on players, with reduced traditional breaks.”
“We started the season intensely and probably underestimated the demands of European competition this year, with the addition of extra fixtures and our extended cup run.”
“Compounding this, we lost key players early in the season, and it feels like we`ve been playing catch-up ever since. We haven`t managed to get ahead of the challenges we`ve faced.”
“Each time we aim to establish stability, something else disrupts our progress, largely stemming back to our initial approach at the start of the year.”
“Knowing what I know now about the season ahead, we might have opted for a more gradual start in our approach.”
“I’ve been attempting to rectify issues as the season progresses.”
Tottenham`s upcoming matches include an away game against Chelsea, followed by a home game against Southampton, and then the Europa League quarter-final first leg against Frankfurt.
Postecoglou added, “The Europa League represents a significant opportunity. We are among the final eight teams. Achieving success after navigating the difficulties we`ve faced this year would be incredibly beneficial for our future development.”
