(Reuters) – Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou praised captain Son Heung-min for stepping up as a leader amidst high-profile departures at the club. Son, who has been in exceptional form this season with 15 goals and eight assists, took on the captain’s role after Harry Kane and Hugo Lloris left the team for new opportunities.
Postecoglou explained that the decision to make Son the captain was not a difficult one, considering the departures of key players like Kane and Lloris. He believed that the team needed a fresh direction and saw Son as a natural leader based on his performances for the national team.
Under Postecoglou’s attacking style of play, Spurs had a strong start to the season, leading the standings after going unbeaten in their first 10 matches. However, they currently sit in fifth place, three points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa.
“We want to finish the season strong and continue to build on the foundation we have set. Our aim is to change the perception of the team and be seen in a different light in the future,” Postecoglou emphasized.
He stressed that their success should not be solely measured by their position in the league table, but also by the progress and growth of the young players in the squad. Postecoglou highlighted the potential of players like Kulusevski, Johnson, Van de Ven, Udogie, and Sarr, all of whom are in their early 20s and relatively new to the Premier League.
“Our job is to develop and improve these young talents, ensuring that they reach their full potential and contribute positively to the team’s success,” Postecoglou added.
He expressed his commitment to working hard with the squad and helping them continue their development in the league. By focusing on the improvement of individual players, Postecoglou believes that the team as a whole will benefit and achieve greater success in the future.
Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond
