‘That is ridiculous’: Chris Sutton can’t believe what he’s heard about Ange Postecoglou now
Tottenham Hotspur’s start to the season has been far from ideal, with the team securing just four points from their first three matches. Despite high hopes under manager Ange Postecoglou, some issues from the previous season persist, raising questions about his ability to guide Spurs to the top.
This has sparked a debate among fans and pundits alike, with opinions divided on whether Postecoglou has the pedigree to succeed in the highly competitive Premier League.
Tottenham’s early performances have left much to be desired. With only one win in three games, the team seems to be struggling to find its footing under Postecoglou’s leadership. These difficulties have led to concerns among the Spurs fanbase, with some supporters beginning to question whether Postecoglou is the right man for the job.
The lingering issues that plagued the team last season under Postecoglou’s management have not been fully resolved. Defensive frailties, inconsistent performances, and a lack of cutting-edge in attack have all contributed to the team’s underwhelming start. While it is still early in the season, these concerns have fueled skepticism about Postecoglou’s ability to lead Tottenham to success in the Premier League.
Despite the growing doubts, former footballer and pundit Chris Sutton has come to Postecoglou’s defense. Speaking on BBC 606, Sutton engaged in a heated debate with a Spurs fan who questioned Postecoglou’s pedigree. The caller argued that while Postecoglou might win a cup, he lacks the credentials to consistently compete at the highest level in England.
Sutton, however, was quick to dismiss this criticism, pointing out Postecoglou’s extensive coaching experience and success in multiple countries. “That is ridiculous to say he has no pedigree. He’s been coaching for 25 years. He’s had success in Japan, Australia, and Scotland. That is slightly arrogant. He progressed the team last season, he lost Harry Kane, he finished fifth, that is progress,” Sutton stated.
The debate over Postecoglou’s qualifications raises an important question: Does success in smaller leagues translate to success in the Premier League? Postecoglou has indeed enjoyed a fruitful career, winning titles in Japan, Australia, and Scotland. However, the Premier League is a different beast, known for its intensity, depth of talent, and relentless competition.
Critics argue that success in less competitive leagues does not necessarily prepare a manager for the challenges of the Premier League. The example of Frank de Boer, who won four league titles with Ajax but struggled in his brief stint at Crystal Palace, is often cited as a cautionary tale.
De Boer’s failure in England highlighted the difficulty some managers face when transitioning to the Premier League, where the pressure and expectations are significantly higher.
While Postecoglou is not De Boer, and his achievements in various countries should not be dismissed, it is fair to acknowledge that he has yet to prove himself in a top European league. Success in Scotland, Australia, and Japan is commendable, but it does not guarantee that he can replicate those achievements in England, where the level of competition is much fiercer.
As the season progresses, the pressure on Postecoglou to deliver results will only intensify. Tottenham fans have grown impatient after years of near-misses and underachievement, and they expect nothing less than a strong challenge for trophies. Postecoglou’s ability to adapt his tactics, manage the squad effectively, and navigate the rigors of the Premier League will be crucial in determining his success at Spurs.
Ultimately, only time will tell whether Postecoglou can defy the skeptics and lead Tottenham to the top. His pedigree, while impressive in other leagues, will be put to the ultimate test in the Premier League. For now, Spurs fans can only hope that their manager’s experience and tactical acumen will be enough to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
Ange Postecoglou’s journey with Tottenham Hotspur is still in its early stages, and while there are legitimate concerns about his ability to succeed in the Premier League, it is too soon to pass final judgment. His track record in other countries suggests he has the potential to be successful, but the Premier League will be his toughest challenge yet. As Tottenham’s season unfolds, Postecoglou’s true pedigree will be revealed, and only then will we know if he has what it takes to lead Spurs to glory.