Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou reveals why he decided not to sign like-for-like replacement for Harry Kane after Son Heung-min’s hat-trick against Burnley – and insists the South Korean is ‘ideal’ for his system
- Spurs skipper Son Heung-min scored a hat-trick while playing in a central role
- Richarlison was dropped to the bench after starting each of the first three games
- Postecoglou hinted at the forward’s further use at the position moving forward
Ange Postecoglou revealed Son Heung-min’s ability to play as a centre forward played a part in the club’s decision not to pursue a replacement for Harry Kane.
The new Tottenham skipper bagged a hat-trick in Saturday’s 5-2 win over Burnley, playing in the central striking position in place pf Richarlison, who had been dropped to the bench.
New arrival James Maddison continued his startling form but the game came too soon for deadline day signing Brennan Johnson, an attacker, though not an orthodox number nine.
Postecoglou, who maintained his unbeaten start in the league since his arrival in north London, said the 31-year-old’s proficiency centrally factored into his plans for roster construction following the sale of their former talisman.
‘It’s not exactly why, but it’s one of the reasons.’ he said post-match. ‘I’ve got a picture in my head of what I want the team to look like and I keep saying that we’re still at the beginning.
Son Heung-min rewarded his boss’ decision to play him in a central position over Richarlison
Ange Postecoglou revealed his captain’s versatility meant Spurs could pursue targets in other attacking roles after losing Harry Kane
All three members of the club’s new leadership team, James Maddison (left), Son (centre) and Christian Romero (right) found the net in the big win on Saturday
‘It’s about putting all the pieces together and, at the same time, not neglecting what’s right in front of you.
‘Sonny, whether he’s playing central or wide, has got all the characteristics. He can play in any system, but the way we play, he’s ideal.’
The South Korean endured a woeful season last term, a far cry from the form that saw him become the first Asian footballer to win the Premier League Golden Boot in 2022.
Now installed as the club’s new captain, the forward is backed up by deputies Maddison and Christian Romero, who also netted at Turf Moor. Postecoglou reserved special praise for his new leadership group, who, like his team, are excelling under the revamped regime.
He added: ‘Those three I’ve thrust into leadership positions and the way they’ve embraced that responsibility with not only words but actions, not just on game day but on a daily basis — that’s as encouraging for me as anything.
‘As fantastic players as they are individually, they’ve all really bought into that team ethic.’
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