Premium

Spurs reach Europa League semis despite dire season, Ange Postecoglu hits back at critics: ‘Have to put up with me a bit longer’

Postecoglu Praised him team's victory to reach Europa League Semi Finals.

Tottenham players celebrating. (AP photo)

Towards the end of a remarkably poor season, in which they have lost 17 of their 32 Premier League games so far which sees them languishing in 15th position, Spurs kept their hopes alive for a first piece of silverware in 17 years after they snuck away with a 1-0 win away from home against Eintracht Frankfurt to reach the semifinals of the UEFA Europa League.

While much of the breathing space was taken up by Manchester United’s breathless comeback victory against Olympique Lyonnais late on Thursday, it fell under the radar that the favourites to give them competition for the title are now fellow underperforming English giants that are desperate for a trophy, as well as a backdoor entry into next year’s Champions League and the all crucial financial gains that come with it.

After Dominic Solanke netted a first-half penalty, Spurs put together one of their most mature and consistent performances of the season to defend well against a good attacking side and get over the line away from home. Coach Ange Postecoglu hailed his team’s belief after victory.

Story continues below this ad

“I’m delighted with many things. I’m super proud of the lads — away from home in a quarterfinal against a very good side” he said in his post-match press conference, per ESPN. “After a season like ours, it would be very easy for the players and staff to leave me in a pretty vulnerable place by splintering, but I’ve never felt that.”

Despite a long list of ill-timed injuries, Postecoglu has seen much of the criticism for Spurs’ dire season directed his way from pundits and fans alike. As rumours swirled of a potential sacking and the pressure built, he relished in the opportunity to give it back to those that deride him for his tactics or alleged stubbornness regarding the side’s style of play after this result.

“Unfortunately, you guys are going to have to put up with me for just a little bit longer,” he said. “I’m the same manager today that I was yesterday, so if anyone thinks I’m a better coach, I don’t care. It doesn’t affect what I do.”

Spurs will now play surprise semifinalists, Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, for a place in the final.