'Not acceptable...' Ange Postecoglou takes a dig at Timo Werner

Ange Postecoglou faced challenges after Tottenham's 1-1 draw in the Europa League against Rangers, and he took the opportunity to address his striker Timo Werner's performance. 

The manager noted that Werner has the potential to play at a higher level and expressed his belief that there is room for improvement. He emphasised the importance of giving one’s best effort, especially as a German international. Postecoglou encouraged Timo to step up his game and asserted that the expectations for senior players include setting an example for the team.

Postecoglou slams Werner

"He wasn’t playing at anywhere near the level he should be; Timo’s first-half performance was not acceptable to me. I told Timo that he’s a German international and that I need everyone to be trying to give their best, and this wasn’t an acceptable example. I expect a lot more from the senior guys." Postecoglou said.

“But we weren’t anywhere near our best; I think it’s fair to say that we’re in a period of games that we’re grinding through at the moment. But in the context of where we are in Europe and with our squad fairly depleted by injuries, it was an important point.” added Spurs coach.

 “With the nature of the competition and the atmosphere, not many teams can come here and win, so you expect a tough game. It was a tough, tight game for us, and I thought we did well to claw it back after Rangers took the lead,” he concluded.

Spurs currently sit in ninth place in the opening stage of the Europa League, but with two important matches scheduled for next month, there is a great opportunity to climb into the top eight and secure direct passage to the knockout phase, thus bypassing the playoffs in February.

Head coach Postecoglou's team, despite facing injury challenges, is preparing to take on Hoffenheim and Elfsborg in January.