Postecoglou defends Spurs star despite ‘hopeless’ claim; urges him to learn from in-form teammate

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou defended Timo Werner after recent criticism. Werner missed some good chances in recent games. He had a mixed performance against Ferencvaros in the Europa League. Werner also missed opportunities against Manchester United last weekend. Despite this Postecoglou expects Werner to start against Brighton on Sunday. Son Heung-min is doubtful with a hamstring injury. Mikey Moore is not expected to start after playing 90 minutes midweek.

Wilson Odobert and Richarlison are still unavailable due to injuries. Postecoglou rejected suggestions that Werner is hopeless. He compared Werner’s situation to Brennan Johnson’s recent form turnaround. Johnson has now scored in five consecutive matches. Postecoglou said all footballers at this level are very good. He noted Werner just had a bad day with his finishing. The manager highlighted Werner’s positive contributions in recent games.

He mentioned Werner’s cross that nearly led to a goal against Ferencvaros. Postecoglou said if Werner had scored his chances the conversation would be different. He praised Werner’s general play in the last two games. Werner has been taking on defenders and getting into good positions. Postecoglou acknowledged goals would help Werner and the team. He said they will continue to support Werner as he is contributing to the team. Richarlison is close to returning from injury.

This will provide more competition in attack for Tottenham. Postecoglou is looking forward to having Richarlison available again. He noted Richarlison scored goals when fit last season. The manager is excited to have Richarlison and Dominic Solanke as striker options. Richarlison can also play in wide positions. Postecoglou mentioned Richarlison’s injury problems over the last few years. The club is being careful with his recovery this time.

They want to ensure Richarlison stays fit when he returns. Postecoglou hopes Richarlison can join team training during the international break. If that goes well Richarlison could be available after the break. The manager emphasized the importance of doing everything right in Richarlison’s recovery. Postecoglou wants Richarlison to stay fit long-term when he comes back. He is not rushing Richarlison’s return despite being eager to have him available.

Werner will have more competition for his place when Richarlison is fit. Postecoglou sees this as a positive for the squad. He believes having multiple attacking options will benefit the team. The manager is focusing on the positives of Werner’s performances.

He is not overly concerned by the missed chances. Postecoglou trusts Werner will start scoring if he continues playing well overall. He wants the team to keep creating chances for Werner and other attackers. The manager is pleased with how the attack is functioning even without key players. Postecoglou praised the team’s ability to keep winning despite injuries. He sees the return of injured players as a boost to their strong start. The manager is looking forward to having more options to rotate the team. Postecoglou believes competition for places will improve individual performances.

He is happy with the team’s attacking play and expects it to get even better. The manager remains positive about Werner’s contributions to the team. He sees Werner as an important player despite recent criticism.