Ange Postecoglou: From Liverpool Fan to Tottenham Manager
Ange Postecoglou has taken an unorthodox road to the Premier League, but his journey began as a “massive” Liverpool fan in the 1970s and ‘80s. Now, the Greek-born Australian is the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur and will come face-to-face with his former team when they visit Spurs on September 30.
Growing Up a Red
Postecoglou recently joked with Gary Lineker that he had only just taken his posters down from his childhood bedroom. The 58-year-old grew up in a golden era for Liverpool, and he has been open about it playing a part in forming his coaching philosophy.
“Liverpool in the ‘70s, when they played the whole possession stuff and really played football, it was a bit different, and it always attracted me down that road,” he explained. “That obviously influenced me.”
Postecoglou’s Managerial Career
Before leading Spurs, Postecoglou’s managerial career included spells with Brisbane Roar, Melbourne Victory, the Australian national team, Japanese side Yokohama F. Marinos and Celtic. Opportunities to manage against Liverpool in a competitive setting have not been forthcoming, though he was in charge of Melbourne Victory for the Reds’ pre-season clash in 2013.
Spurs Fans Ought to be Pleased
Spurs have found a manager who certainly talks the talk, and their early results have been positive with 13 points from the first 15, the same as Liverpool. Postecoglou is no stranger to success either, having won two A-League titles with Brisbane Roar and a J1 League title with Yokohama F. Marinos.
A fixture with Premier League points on the line will be a little different than the pre-season friendly in 2013, and much has changed since Brendan Rodgers took his side down under. Spurs fans ought to be pleased that Postecoglou has taken over as manager and is bringing his experience and winning mentality to the club.
Conclusion
Ange Postecoglou has come full circle from growing up a Liverpool fan to managing against them as Tottenham’s new manager. His journey has been an unorthodox one, but his coaching philosophy has been heavily influenced by the Reds’ possession style of play in the ’70s. Spurs fans will be hoping that Postecoglou can bring his winning mentality to the club and lead them to success.