After Manchester United’s defeat, Bruno Fernandes argued that the challenge was “never a red” – saying it was a foul but not an expulsion – but Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou refused to get into the discussion, praising his side for putting “pressure” on the Red Devils
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou stated Bruno Fernandes’ dismissal was “a consequence” of his team’s performance in their 3-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday evening.
Spurs cranked on the flair at Old Trafford, scoring just three minutes thanks to Brennan Johnson, before United captain Bruno Fernandes was sent out for a high boot on James Maddison. Dejan Kulusevski scored the second goal after the intermission, and Dominic
Fernandes argued after the game that it was “never a red,” claiming it was a foul but not a dismissal, but Postecoglou declined to get involved in the discussion over whether it was a fair sending off, instead focusing on how it happened after Spurs put United under “enormous” pressure.
“I think it was a consequence of how we were going in the game,” stated the captain. “I’m just putting massive pressure on them. With the number of opportunities we were providing, we weren’t allowing them to escape their half. “It was a strong overall performance.”
The Australian coach agreed that his team should have scored a few more goals, but lauded his players for their strong start and control of the game after United was reduced to 10 men.
“I thought it was an outstanding performance,” he said afterwards. “Started the game beautifully, scored a great goal, but could have had two or three and gone away. They receive a red card, and we maintain excellent control over the game. The lads made a fantastic effort.
Fernandes said it wasn’t a red card, telling the media after the game: “I agree that it is a foul, but it is never a [sending off].” The referee attempted to inform me that because he observed a visible contact with the studs, no. I did not contact him with the studs or my foot; it was my ankle. It’s a blatant foul.
The result puts enormous pressure on United manager Erik ten Hag after the club suffered back-to-back 3-0 home defeats, having lost to Liverpool by the same score the last time they played here in the Premier League.
But Ten Hag was defiant in his post-match press conference, stating that the club’s owners, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are still behind him and have decided to stick with the Dutchman this summer.
“No, I am not thinking about [being fired]. We all decided to stay together this summer, as an ownership and leadership group. Also, after a thorough assessment, we determined what we needed to improve as an organization and how to build a squad.
“All of the decisions were made together, with the understanding that it would take some time. We are all on the same page, one boat, including the ownership, leadership group, staff, and players.
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