Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, believes that his team is in the Premier League title race. However, he has warned that it will be 'meaningless' if they do not finish the season stronger than they started. With Spurs currently in fifth place, six points behind league leaders Liverpool, there is still a long way to go in the season.
After the departure of star striker Harry Kane to Bayern Munich in the summer, expectations were low for Tottenham. But under Postecoglou's leadership, the club has experienced a revival, playing an exciting brand of football that has led to questions about their chances of challenging for their first league win since 1961.
When asked about their title aspirations, Postecoglou responded, 'By that definition, if I said 'no,' you'd turn around and say 'Come on, Ange' because by definition we are [in the title race], aren't we? So yes, we are.' He believes that until they are mathematically out of contention, there is no reason to discount the possibility.
Tottenham started the season strong but faced a challenging period with injuries that resulted in four defeats in five games. However, they have managed to bounce back and regain their form, including a recent victory over Burnley in the FA Cup fourth round.
Postecoglou acknowledges the team's resilience, saying, 'We've gone through a really tough period but we've been hanging in there. We had four games where the results went against us but we've clawed our way back. We're still in there.' He emphasizes that consistent performances are crucial, but it will only matter if they finish the season stronger than they started.
In an attempt to strengthen the squad, Tottenham made moves in the January transfer market. They signed Timo Werner on loan from RB Leipzig and brought in Radu Dragusin from Genoa in a deal worth approximately €30 million ($32.9 million). Additionally, Djed Spence joined Genoa on loan, while Eric Dier followed Kane to Bayern, initially on loan with an option to buy.
When asked about potential further additions to the squad, particularly the rumored interest in Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, Postecoglou stated, 'We'll see. We had some pretty clear objectives which we've ticked off for now.' He affirmed that every transfer window is an opportunity for the team to improve and that if there is a chance to strengthen further, they will consider it.
Overall, Postecoglou is pleased with the progress made so far this season. He firmly believes that Tottenham is in the title race and acknowledges that their performances have been consistent. However, to make their title ambitions meaningful, they must finish the season stronger than they started. The January transfer window has allowed them to make valuable additions, and while further signings are possible, the focus remains on achieving their objectives for the season.
As Tottenham faces Manchester United this weekend, the team will have an opportunity to showcase their title credentials and continue their quest for Premier League glory.
