Ange Postecoglou's Impact: Tottenham's Surprising Rise to the Top

When Ange Postecoglou took over at Tottenham before the Premier League season kicked off, the appointment was met with surprise and even dismay in some quarters. However, he has exceeded all expectations with a 10-match unbeaten run that sent them to the top of the table early in the campaign. Postecoglou's bold tactical approach and his team's blinding brand of attacking football have been key factors in their success.

Despite facing injuries and suspensions that decimated the squad, Postecoglou has managed to steady the ship and has lost just once in their last seven matches. Currently sitting fifth on the table with 44 points, Tottenham's performance would have comfortably placed them in the top four in previous seasons.

One of the notable changes Postecoglou has made is the drastic reshaping of the squad. With the departure of talismanic captain Harry Kane, he used the funds to make several signings, focusing on young players. The average age of the starting XI has decreased significantly, and Postecoglou has shown trust in these young players by giving them regular playing time.

Looking ahead, Tottenham's aim is to secure a top-four finish and qualify for the Champions League. However, the new Swiss Model for the Champions League could have a significant impact on their chances. With four more teams competing and additional places allocated based on the performance of each nation's clubs in European competitions, Tottenham may need to rely on a Premier League rival winning the Champions League to secure qualification.

In the final stretch of the season, Postecoglou will be hoping for the return of star player Son Heung-Min, who has been absent at the Asian Cup. Tottenham faces a challenging run of games, including matches against Newcastle, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool. These games could determine their season's outcome.

Regardless of the final result, Ange Postecoglou has proven his ability to make a significant impact at Tottenham. His bold approach, reshaping of the squad, and focus on young players have laid the foundation for long-term success.