Timo Werner will get playing time again on Sunday in Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League match against Southampton. Manager Ange Postecoglou criticized the German forward on Thursday after the Europa League match against Rangers (1-1) but revisited those comments on Friday.
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Timo Werner’s struggles at Tottenham Hotspur have come under intense scrutiny after his underwhelming performance against Rangers in the Europa League on Thursday.
Despite being handed a starting role by Ange Postecoglou, Werner was pulled off at halftime after failing to make an impact. Postecoglou, clearly frustrated, did not hold back in his assessment of the German international, describing his display as unacceptable. "This was nowhere near the level that is required," Postecoglou said bluntly after the 1-1 draw at Ibrox, a statement that underscored the manager’s growing frustration with senior players at the club.
Tottenham’s issues were further compounded by their reliance on youth players to fill critical roles during the game. Postecoglou fielded 18-year-old Archie Gray in the heart of the defense, a position demanding experience and composure under pressure, especially in European competition. Later in the match, another teenager, Lucas Bergvall, was brought on to add energy to the midfield. Postecoglou expressed his frustration at the situation, joking about how extreme the club’s current circumstances have become. “I literally have to pull kids out of school; I get messages from teachers saying Lucas missed another day at school. That’s the reason why I’m pushing experienced players like Timo to perform at a higher level. They’re supposed to carry the team in moments like this.”
Postecoglou’s dissatisfaction with Werner’s performance raises questions about the forward’s role in the squad and his ability to adapt to Spurs' style of play. Since arriving on loan in January, Werner has struggled to replicate the form that once made him a sought-after talent at RB Leipzig. His time at Chelsea also ended with widespread criticism for his inconsistency in front of goal, and Postecoglou’s remarks have now brought renewed focus to Werner’s form and confidence. Yet, when asked if the German attacker would face consequences or limited game time, Postecoglou dismissed such speculation and confirmed that Werner would feature in Sunday’s Premier League clash against Southampton. "He’ll play. I don’t have time to worry about bruised egos," the manager said firmly. "If you can’t handle this, you’re not suited for this profession."
Postecoglou’s comments highlight his no-nonsense management style and his unwillingness to shield players from criticism, especially when expectations are not met. However, he clarified that his words were not intended to single out Werner for harsh criticism but to state a clear truth. “No, I was simply stating a fact. If we play poorly, then we play poorly. There’s no sugarcoating it. I demand a lot from 18-year-old players who are stepping into huge roles, and when you have someone as experienced as Timo a player who’s an international and has won the Champions League there’s an expectation that he’ll help carry the team. He didn’t reach that level, and that’s something we need to address.”
The situation reflects a broader issue at Tottenham, where injuries, squad depth, and inconsistency have plagued the team throughout the season. Postecoglou’s remarks come amid mounting pressure, as Spurs have struggled to find stability in recent weeks. Their inability to maintain momentum has seen them slide in the Premier League standings, while performances in Europe have been equally unconvincing. For a manager like Postecoglou, whose success at Celtic was built on intensity and accountability, the lack of leadership from senior players like Werner appears to be a sticking point.
Adding to the tension is the recent controversy surrounding Cristian Romero, who publicly criticized Tottenham’s transfer policy earlier in the week. Romero’s comments, suggesting that the club’s lack of investment has hampered their ability to compete at the highest level, did not sit well with Postecoglou. The Australian manager, already frustrated with the team’s performances, was quick to shut down such talk. “I’m so tired of that. That’s just looking for excuses,” he said with evident irritation. “Everyone needs to take responsibility. If we think there’s some myth holding the club back from being successful, then change it. Don’t complain about it. This is not the mentality I will accept in my squad.”
Postecoglou’s stance reflects a manager determined to instill a culture of accountability and resilience at Spurs. He has consistently emphasized the importance of players stepping up and meeting the challenges of a competitive league and European campaign. Yet, with key players failing to meet expectations and tensions rising within the squad, the manager faces an uphill task in keeping Spurs’ season on track. Werner, in particular, will now find himself under intense scrutiny in the coming weeks. Sunday’s match against Southampton will be a significant opportunity for the German forward to respond to Postecoglou’s challenge and prove he can deliver under pressure.
For Tottenham fans, the growing frustration is palpable. While the club showed promise at the start of the season, injuries, inconsistencies, and off-field issues have slowed their progress. Postecoglou’s hardline approach and honest assessments have been welcomed by some supporters, who see it as a necessary step in holding players accountable. Others, however, fear that the manager’s public remarks could further damage the confidence of players like Werner, who are already struggling to find their footing.
The next few weeks will be crucial for both Werner and Tottenham. With the pressure mounting and expectations high, Postecoglou’s demand for higher standards from experienced players will need to be met. Werner, a player with undeniable talent but plagued by inconsistency, must rise to the occasion and deliver performances that reflect his experience and pedigree. Whether he can overcome this latest setback and reclaim his form remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: under Postecoglou, there will be no hiding from accountability.
Updated: 12:10, 14 Dec 2024
