The Athletic FC Podcast: "Will Tottenham Stick with Project Postecoglou?"
Release Date: December 11, 2024
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
Guests: Jack Pitt Brook (Tottenham Writer), Charlie Eccleshare
1. Introduction
In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Ayo Akinwolere delves deep into Tottenham Hotspur's current struggles under manager Ange Postecoglou. Joined by Tottenham writer Jack Pitt Brook and Charlie Eccleshare, the trio examines the team's inconsistent performances, tactical approaches, and the future of the managerial project known as "Project Postecoglou."
2. Tottenham's Current Form and Statistics
Ayo opens the discussion by highlighting Tottenham's precarious position in the Premier League, noting their loss of 19 out of 43 matches and a particularly damaging recent defeat.
Key Points:
- Recent Defeat: Tottenham's latest loss to Chelsea marks their 11th defeat in scenarios where they lead by two or more goals, a statistic that surpasses any other team in Premier League history. (Ayo Akinwolere, 02:30)
Notable Quote:
"Spurs have lost 19 of their last 43 matches in the Premier League and their most recent defeat was particularly damaging."
— Ayo Akinwolere [02:18]
3. Manager Ange Postecoglou's Tactics and Performance
Jack Pitt Brook provides an in-depth analysis of Postecoglou's tactical setup, emphasizing the high-risk, high-reward nature of Tottenham's playing style.
Key Points:
- Demanding Playstyle: Tottenham's approach under Postecoglou is physically and tactically demanding, relying on high pressing and a high defensive line. This system requires flawless execution every match.
- Inconsistency Issues: The reliance on perfect performance levels from every player makes the team vulnerable to drops in form or injuries. (Jack Pitt Brook, 03:15)
Notable Quote:
"It's incredibly physical as well, in the way that people, I think, underestimate... you know, it's a very high risk, high reward system."
— Jack Pitt Brook [06:09]
4. Squad Depth and Injuries
Charlie Eccleshare discusses the challenges Tottenham faces with squad depth and recurring injuries, which exacerbate the team's inconsistency.
Key Points:
- Key Injuries: The absence of crucial players like Van der Ven and Romero has significantly impacted Tottenham's defensive stability.
- Youth vs. Experience: The reliance on young, promising players who are not yet fully seasoned in the Premier League adds to the squad's fragility. (Charlie Eccleshare, 05:59)
Notable Quote:
"They really need to have incredible performance levels from everyone in the team... they're not going to win games because they make it so difficult for themselves."
— Jack Pitt Brook [06:09]
5. Fan Sentiment and Reactions
The podcast touches on the evolving relationship between the fans and the management, especially in light of recent performances and public statements by Postecoglou.
Key Points:
- Viral Clip Reaction: A clip from Danny Kelly's View from the Lane podcast expressing frustration with Tottenham's tactics sparks discussion about fan discontent. (Ayo Akinwolere, 10:27)
- Support vs. Criticism: While some fans show frustration, there remains a core support base that believes in Postecoglou's long-term vision. (Jack Pitt Brook, 30:56)
Notable Quote:
"I don't think Tottenham are especially bad at defending. They just have their own way of defending... if they fail to clear that bar, then it all falls apart."
— Jack Pitt Brook [12:17]
6. Possible Investment and Club's Strategy
Investment discussions play a crucial role in Tottenham's future trajectory, with the potential for external stakeholders influencing the club's direction.
Key Points:
- External Investment: Tottenham is actively seeking external investors to bolster the squad and compete at higher levels. The uncertainty around potential investments adds to the club's current instability. (Jack Pitt Brook, 38:03)
- Strategic Direction: The balance between nurturing young talent for future success versus acquiring experienced players to stabilize the present is a central debate. (Charlie Eccleshare, 33:38)
Notable Quote:
"The strategy at the club is basically to have Postecoglou as manager and if they sacked him, then they wouldn't have a manager and they wouldn't have a strategy and they wouldn't have an identity."
— Jack Pitt Brook [35:58]
7. Upcoming Fixtures and Implications
The panel reviews Tottenham's challenging schedule ahead, emphasizing the importance of pivotal matches that could determine the club's immediate future.
Key Points:
- Crucial Matches: Upcoming games against Rangers, Southampton, and Manchester United are highlighted as significant tests for Postecoglou's management.
- Fixture Congestion: The demanding schedule, including participation in multiple competitions, is straining the squad's limited depth. (Charlie Eccleshare, 39:13)
Notable Quote:
"They really struggled once things have started to get away from them. So it would be big for them if they could come through this."
— Charlie Eccleshare [39:13]
8. Conclusions and Future Outlook
The podcast concludes with reflections on whether Tottenham should continue investing in Postecoglou's vision or consider alternative managerial options to salvage the season.
Key Points:
- Patience vs. Performance: While there's acknowledgment of the long-term benefits of investing in young talent, the immediate lack of results puts pressure on maintaining patience.
- Club Stakeholders: The balance between players' support for Postecoglou, fan expectations, and the club's willingness to adjust strategies remains delicate. (Ayo Akinwolere, 30:56)
Notable Quote:
"I think that the prize of Tottenham being consistent and replicating their good days is so big that it's worth buying a ticket for, basically."
— Jack Pitt Brook [21:28]
Final Thoughts
The Athletic FC Podcast provides a comprehensive analysis of Tottenham Hotspur's current predicament under Ange Postecoglou. With insightful commentary from experts Jack Pitt Brook and Charlie Eccleshare, the episode underscores the complexities of managing a top-tier football club facing internal and external challenges. As Tottenham navigates through a tumultuous season, the decisions made by the management and the resilience of the squad will be pivotal in determining the future of Project Postecoglou.
Listen to the full episode here.