Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou has hit back at critics in his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Chelsea, defending his track record and asserting his credentials as a winner.
When asked about the significance of this weekend’s game, Postecoglou stressed the importance of securing victory: "Winning the next match always matters, no matter what’s happened before. Chelsea are tough, but playing at home gives us an edge – we’re ready for the challenge."
Addressing speculation about pressure and talks with the club hierarchy, he dismissed rumors: "We’re just focused on preparation. Nothing’s changed."
However, the Australian coach opened up about perceptions of his career, particularly his tenure at Tottenham. "People call me a ‘lucky failure’ – but let’s look at the facts," he said. "I joined Spurs when they were 8th, without Champions League football. A big club that hadn’t been in the Champions League for two years. In my first season, we finished 5th and got them back into the Champions League – where a club like Spurs belongs."
He hit out at the erasure of that achievement: "Somehow, that season got written off. Even the first 10 games – crucial for any team – were ignored, and it became a reason for me leaving."
Postecoglou also clarified Spurs’ subsequent 17th-place finish, which critics cite: "That was down to basic issues. Look at our team sheet in the last five or six games – who I picked, who was on the bench. After winning a trophy, I let the lads celebrate for two days. That’s why we finished 17th – but it doesn’t reflect my ability."
"I’m a winner," he emphasized. "At every club I’ve managed, I’ve won a trophy. Give me time, and the story always ends the same way."
Ahead of facing Chelsea, Postecoglou confirmed his squad is ready, with international players returning in good form.
