Tottenham’s head coach Ange Postecoglou has taken accountability for the club’s inconsistency this season, attributing recent struggles to his management rather than the players. Despite some strong performances in cup competitions, Spurs’ fluctuating league form has left them 10th in the Premier League, following a 2-1 defeat to Ipswich on Sunday. This marks their fifth loss in 11 league games, putting them 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.
Tottenham’s Inconsistent League Form
Tottenham has yet to secure a solid winning streak in the Premier League, with their longest run of consecutive victories standing at just two matches. In all competitions, Spurs’ best streak has been five wins, but the league remains a challenge. In the Europa League, they started strongly, winning their first three games but recently suffered a setback with a loss to Galatasaray. While the club has advanced to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, league form remains an area of concern.
Reflecting on their struggles, Postecoglou told BBC Sport, “It’s down to me. I’m not getting consistent performances from the players.” He admitted his role in the team’s lack of reliability, adding, “When performances don’t reach the necessary levels, responsibility falls on me.”
Early Setbacks Continue to Haunt Spurs
The club’s trend of conceding early continues to be an issue. Tottenham went 2-0 down by halftime against Ipswich after goals from Sam Szmodics and Liam Delap. Although Rodrigo Bentancur’s header offered a glimpse of hope, Spurs were unable to find an equalizer.
This was the 13th time Spurs have trailed 1-0 at home in 15 Premier League games this year. Only a few teams, including Tottenham in 1994, Ipswich in 1994, and Crystal Palace in 2017, have had a higher number of early deficits at home within a single calendar year. “We were far too passive,” Postecoglou told BBC Radio 5 Live. “Giving the opposition such a head start makes it very challenging to fight back.”
Optimism Amid Challenges
After a defeat to Arsenal in September’s north London derby, Postecoglou expressed confidence about Spurs’ potential, stating he often finds success in his second year at a club and believes the team can contend for trophies this season. Despite the obstacles, he remains optimistic, recognizing the need to address current issues while focusing on building a more consistent squad.
