Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou replaced Werner with Kulusevski at halftime, and the Swedish forward immediately made an impact.
However, the former Celtic manager didn’t hold back on Werner, saying:
“He wasn’t playing anywhere near the level he should. He’s a senior international, a German international. With an 18-year-old on the pitch, it’s not acceptable for him to perform that way.”
The Tottenham Hotspur manager further emphasized the need for senior players to step up in a squad hampered by injuries and suspensions.
“We’re a depleted squad. I expect the senior guys to set the standard, especially when asking younger players to shoulder massive responsibilities.”
Fan Backlash to Public Criticism
Postecoglou’s comments sparked mixed reactions online. Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their views:
“Defeat has really done this man dirty. How do you throw your player under the bus like that?”
Another fan shocked by his response added “he really said this?”
You know it’s going from bad to worse when a manager speaks like this. He should just quit.”
Despite the criticism, some praised the manager for demanding accountability from his senior players, given Spurs’ current struggles.
⚪️⚠️ Ange Postecoglou on Timo Werner…@HaytersTV 🎥pic.twitter.com/vmKWzlqGpi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 12, 2024
Pay Attention: Get the best tips from our Bet of the Day
Bright Spots Amid Disappointment
Postecoglou lauded 18-year-old Archie Gray, who deputized at center-back in the absence of senior options.
The youngster impressed, with Postecoglou remarking:
“He handled himself really well in a big game, especially in an unfamiliar position. His performance was outstanding.”
Another young prospect, Lucas Bergvall, also earned praise after coming off the bench, despite battling illness earlier in the day.
Tottenham will travel to face Southampton in their next fixture, aiming to return to winning ways and leave this latest disappointment behind.
