'I am not a clown'- Ange Postecoglou in no mood to entertain disrespect as Tottenham are on the brink of European glory

Speaking at San Mames Stadium, an emotional Postecoglou angrily dismissed the suggestion he is a “clown” in the pre-match press conference. Referencing a report in the Standard, which said he was “teetering between hero and clown” depending on the outcome in Bilbao, the Tottenham gaffer defended his managerial record as he narrated his personal journey and that of his family.

“Irrespective of tomorrow, I’m not a clown and never will be,” Postecoglou said in a press conference (h/t ESPN).

“I’m really disappointed that you would use such terminology about a person who for 26 years without any favours from anyone has worked his way to a position where he’s leading out a club in a European major competition [final].

“For you to suggest that somehow us not being successful means that I’m a clown … [I’m] not really sure how to answer that question.”

The former Australia and Celtic boss has worked hard to guide Tottenham to the European final. The North London club have not won a trophy since 2008 and have not tasted European success since 1984, so this showpiece event is massive for everyone associated with Spurs.

The majority of the fanbase have lost faith in Ange, even if he beats Man United and lifts the Europa League, but a defeat would almost bring curtains down to his two-year spell at White Hart Lane. Despite how the season has panned out, the Greek-Aussie tactician deserves respect for his managerial career, trophies he has won at his former clubs and for guiding Tottenham to the Europa League final.

Some of the criticism Ange has received this season—from the media and pundits—has been way over the top. It was good to see our veteran gaffer defending himself and his trophy-laden managerial record with passion and pride. Hopefully, he silences his detractors and brings joy to the millions of Tottenham fans who have forgotten what it is to win a trophy.