Spurs defender says Postecoglou is a 'top manager'

Dutch defender and former Wolfsburg center-back Micky van de Ven has been one of the most impactful players in North London since joining Tottenham last August (Transfermarkt).

The 23-year-old, who recently spoke with the club in an exclusive interview, had a lot to say about how the manager played a crucial role in bringing him to the Premier League side.

"I had a good meeting with Ange, we knew the interest from Spurs and it was good to speak to the gaffer," VDV said.

"His vision on football, I liked it, to play out from the back, to play offensive football with a lot of possession. The way he spoke to me and the trust he gave me in the meeting really convinced me," he continued.

For anyone familiar with the Australian manager's style of play, they know that perhaps only a player with the type of recovery pace and confidence on the ball like van de Ven can meet Postecoglou's unique demands.

"I think he's a top manager. He's really clear in what he wants and sticks to his principles. What makes him special is that he knows what he wants and what is best for his teams, so he keeps pushing us more and more which is important," the Dutch defender explained.

The expectations for performance were all over the place heading into the 2023/24 campaign after Spurs failed to qualify for any European competitions upon finishing eighth in the league last season (Sky Sports).

Currently in fifth, Spurs are arguably short of where they'd like to be, and where Ange would like them to be. Nevertheless, it's an impressive feat considering the stark changes to leadership, play style, and player profiles which the club has seen in the past year.

"I’m really enjoying it," van de Ven said. "The Club and the people here are amazing."

Tottenham will continue to rely on VDV's services as they look to bounce back after a tough 3-2 loss to Arsenal over the weekend.