Ange Postecoglou describes his layoff from Tottenham as “unusual.” Mainly because he had experienced such treatment for the first time in his career, having acquired silverware a few weeks ago. The 60-year-old put an end to the Spurs’ 17-year trophystas by bringing the club to Europa League glory against Manchester United in Bilbao last May.
Nevertheless, Postcoglow found himself released from duties a few weeks later due to the club’s disappointing 17th place Premier League finish, as he prioritized the European campaign. Thomas Frank took over him at the N17, but Postcoglow secured new employment after replacing Nuno Espirito Santo as head coach of Nottingham Forest. During his first press conference on Thursday, he looked back at his Spurs exit.
“It was unusual because it’s never happened to me before,” he said. “It’s the first time I’ve been fired, it’s the first time I’ve turned off the offseason, I’m wondering about the next opportunity. All I knew was I was really eager to go to a club that gave me a platform to continue what I’m doing in my career.
“I once asked if work in Nottingham Forest was possible earlier this year and said no for the work Nuno did. The opportunity presented itself and I was here to take it.”
Looking back at his departure from the Spurs, he said: “It wasn’t great. I knew I was coming before the final. It wasn’t a surprise. There was a parade, but I knew it was done. From my perspective, I have the opportunity to handle it.
“We have placed Spurs supporters throughout some tough times, but there are no Spurs fans I have met.
Regarding the succession of Nuno, another Tottenham manager, he said, “It’s the nature of football. I really don’t know what situation you’ll take over. They didn’t look like they were in the Premier League until Steve Cooper took over the club.
“You certainly don’t know when these things will end. I didn’t think I would end after winning the trophy.”
