Player tributes for ‘legend’ Ange Postecoglou point to one theory about the Australian’s sacking

The outpouring of support from his players has confirmed sacked Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou never lost the dressing room - only the support of the owner, who is now facing the heat.

The random hugs, the cheeky banner and the heartfelt words from players have enhanced the vibe that Tottenham Hotspur owner Daniel Levy was very much a lone sniper when he took down Ange Postecoglou.

As the days pass following Postecoglou’s axing last week it is becoming increasingly apparent that the London Telegraph’s reports of unrest among the players at the decision seem to have captured the mood of the group - not that they are brave or silly enough to say it publicly.

In fact, the players are delivering their feelings with silk rather than a sledgehammer, too late to save Postecoglou’s bacon at Tottenham but useful references for his next job, where ever that will be.

Son Heung-Min, Guglielmo Vicario, Dominic Solanke and Micky van de Ven all posted emotional messages supporting Postecoglou on Instagram, whipping up more anger among Tottenham fans over his sacking by the ruthless and notoriously impatient club owner Levy who is now looking for his 16th manager since he took charge of the club two decades ago.

The high-profile players, along with a host of their teammates, deftly conveyed their thanks and deep-seated appreciation of Postecglou without drifting into the career-threatening territory of criticising the decision.

Ange Postecoglou has been warmly praised by players in the wake of his sacking. Picture: Getty

Tottenham captain Son branded Postecoglou a “legend” who had given the squad lifelong memories.

“Gaffer. You’ve changed the trajectory of this club,” Son said on Instagram.

“You believed in yourself, and us, since day one and never wavered for a second. Even when others did.

“You knew what we were capable of all along. You did it your way. And your way brought this club the best night it’s had in decades. We will have those memories for life.

“I am a better player and a better person because of you.

“Ange Postecoglou, you are a Tottenham Hotspur legend forever. Thank you, mate.”

Tottenham’s sacking of Ange Postecoglou (L) has cemented some theories about Daniel Levy. PIcture: Getty

Netherlands defender Van de Van was another to spotlight the belief factor.

“Gaffer, Thank you for everything! Believed in me from the first day I arrived at the club. Many ups and downs in the last two years but you kept believing in us and kept pushing us.’’

A review of the moments after Tottenham’s win over Manchester United in the Europa Cup final showed the players affection for Postecoglou with James Maddison and

Sergio Reguilon holding a banner with Postecoglou saying “I ALWAYS win things in my second year’’ and players like defender Pedro Porro emotionally dragging him into the on stage celebrations after the Europa win despite the fact he deliberately attempted to stay at the side of the stage.

Pedro Porro spoke warmly of his bond with the Australian manager. Picture: Getty

Porro publicly thanked Postecoglou for “mentoring me early on, helping me settle into the club and trusting me on the pitch’’.

Vicario said Postecoglou was someone he would always look up to.

“Boss, I just want to say a massive thank you for everything you have done for me and for all of us,’’ Vicario said on Instagram.

“From that very first call, right from the beginning, you always showed so much belief in me.

“You are not only a top manager, you are an incredible person to work for, a real leader, a mentor, and someone I’ll always look up to.

“Thank you, Boss. Forever grateful, Vic.”

Originally published as Player tributes for ‘legend’ Ange Postecoglou point to one theory about the Australian’s sacking