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Tottenham’s Injury Crisis & FA Cup Elimination
Postecoglou Hits Back at Critics Following Aston Villa Defeat
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has passionately defended his squad following their FA Cup exit to Aston Villa, just days after their Carabao Cup elimination. The Australian coach dismissed criticism of his players, emphasizing the severe injury crisis that has left Spurs struggling for form.
Spurs remain active in the Europa League, their last opportunity for silverware this season, but currently sit 14th in the Premier League, on course for their worst finish since 2003/04.
Postecoglou on Player Criticism: “It’s Not Objective”
Postecoglou made it clear that he welcomes judgment on his own performance but refuses to accept unfair criticism of his players:
“People can judge me. They can say I’ve done a bad job, I’m not up to it or whatever. That’s fine. What I’m saying is you can’t be critical of our players’ performances at this time.”
He highlighted the physical toll of Spurs’ relentless schedule, stating that even elite teams would struggle under similar circumstances.
A Swipe at Liverpool’s FA Cup Upset
Postecoglou also compared Tottenham’s situation to Liverpool’s FA Cup shock against Plymouth, where the Reds crashed out after making wholesale changes to their squad:
“Take [the injured players] out of any team. How did Liverpool go today? And they just did that for one game. Do that for two and a half months. Any team, do that for two and a half months in multiple competitions.”
The manager stressed that his squad has been stretched thin since mid-November, with young and inexperienced players forced into key roles.
Spurs’ Grit and Determination Despite Setbacks
Despite the difficult circumstances, Postecoglou praised his squad’s resilience:
“Two 18-year-olds, a 17-year-old, a 19-year-old and a 21-year-old goalkeeper starting against one of the best teams in the country at home. What more can I ask of them?”
He further noted that Aston Villa had a full week of rest, while Spurs had to field the same depleted squad for back-to-back fixtures.
Have Your Say!
Do you agree with Ange Postecoglou’s defense of Tottenham’s struggles? Should Spurs have managed the injury crisis differently? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇
