Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou could face an FA probe over comments he made following his side’s 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle United.
Postecoglou was left furious by some of referee Andrew Madley’s decisions, particularly the awarding of Newcastle’s equalizing goal, which saw the ball clearly strike Joelinton on the hand.
Despite VAR review, the goal stood as Joelinton’s hand was deemed to be in a natural position.
Postecoglou said after the game: “On the balance of play, any balance you want with all things being equal, we would have won today. Things weren’t equal and balanced.”
When pressed further, Postecoglou reiterated his belief that on a “fair and even playing ground” Tottenham would have won the game.
The FA are now reportedly investigating Postecoglou’s comments. While managers are allowed to express their opinions on refereeing decisions, they are prohibited from making comments that could be construed as questioning the integrity or impartiality of match officials.
If Postecoglou admits his comments were directed at the referee, he could face disciplinary action, including a touchline ban or a fine.
Tottenham were already missing 10 first-team players due to injury and illness, and their performance was further hampered by the controversial refereeing decisions.
Despite these setbacks, Postecoglou praised his players’ effort, highlighting their spirited fight back after conceding the opening goal. He emphasized that his players deserved a better result on a “fair and even playing field.”
The defeat leaves Tottenham struggling in the Premier League, and Postecoglou will be hoping to improve his team’s fortunes in the coming weeks.
Tottenham Hotspur are facing a significant injury crisis ahead of their crucial Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Liverpool. A sickness bug has swept through the squad, leaving several key players sidelined, including Radu Dragusin and Fraser Forster.
Dragusin, who started against Newcastle, was forced off at halftime due to illness. Postecoglou acknowledged that Dragusin and Archie Gray were “literally off sickbeds to play today,” highlighting the extent of the illness. Forster, the backup goalkeeper, was also ruled out of the match due to the illness.
Destiny Udogie, who suffered a hamstring injury against Wolves, is expected to be sidelined for around six weeks.
However, there is some positive news on the injury front. Key defenders Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Ben Davies are all expected to return towards the end of January, providing a much-needed boost to the Tottenham backline.
Guglielmo Vicario, the first-choice goalkeeper, underwent surgery on a fractured ankle and is expected to be out for an extended period.
Mikey Moore and Richarlison are expected to return to the squad this week, which will provide a welcome boost to Postecoglou’s squad depth.
Unfortunately, young summer signing Wilson Odobert suffered a serious setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury, requiring surgery.
These injuries have significantly impacted Tottenham’s squad depth and will pose a significant challenge for Postecoglou as he prepares for the crucial two-legged tie against Liverpool.
