It started with a message of simplicity to his Tottenham public as Ange Postecoglou made clear "I love to win. mate."
The former Celtic boss is being met with increasing warmth from his new public and his address to Spurs punters across the globe on his first official day on Saturday hit the spot. The 57-year-old famously told an assortment of Celtic fringe men and ex-stars to be on his opening day he, and by proxy, they, would 'Never Stop'. A pair of dominant seasons and five trophies later underlined the Australian was made of something greater than quotable soundbites.
So now 48 months on and Postecoglou is once again facing winning over a sceptical public. But, perhaps, the age of Ange in North London won't need much coaxing from both inside and outside the Spurs dressing room. Take Eric Dier, for instance, the England international has been showered with boos, at times, over perceived flaws in his game. But the 29-year-old is set to remain at Spurs and could be back at the club's training ground in the coming days. He appears all-in on Angeball.
There were a host of internationals among the faces returning on Saturday morning as Injured Rodrigo Bentancur was put through his paces and potential key men such as Pedro Porro, Emerson Royal and Tanguy Ndombele. But the 57-year-old has appeared keen to make respect a two-way street and the Athletic state the feeling around the man who got Celtic rocking is one of optimism. Their report states phone calls made from coach to players before a return to work were viewed favourably among a squad who endured a torrid season last time which included three faces in the dugout. And Postecoglou's simple handshake when players enter the training pitch is a personal touch which has been missing in recent years.
Antonio Conte and Christian Stellini have exited stage left, however, Ryan Mason is primed for his John Kennedy role in this Spurs staff. Postecoglou namechecked former interim boss Mason and his longevity in Lilywhite as a factor he can lean on during his early Spurs days.
Harry Kane is still on his holidays and his future remains up in the air with Bayern hell-bent on securing his signature with only 12 months remaining on his current deal.
READ NEXT:
