Ange Postecoglou appeared to aim a dig at some of Tottenham’s Premier League rivals, criticising overblown reactions to less severe injury crises than he feels his side are currently enduring.
Spurs were again without first-choice centre-back pairing Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven in Sunday’s 1-1 draw at home to Fulham, with Ben Davies and Radu Dragusin playing in place of the injured duo.
Tottenham were also without striker Dominic Solanke after he fell ill on the morning of the game.
Postecoglou’s side are also without No1 goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, as well as Wilson Odobert and Richarlison.
The Tottenham manager was delighted by the performances of Dragusin and Davies, who partnered each other in central defence for the third game in the space of a week.
“Benny and Radu have been outstanding throughout this spell,” said Postecoglou. “I mean there aren't too many teams in the league who have both their centre-backs out.
“I've seen so much violin-playing over [other teams having] one centre-back out, but we're just supposed to get on with it,” an impassioned Postecoglou added.
“The beauty of it is these boys are, and I love that. I love the character they're showing. I love the fact that they're not seeking excuses or wanting me to make allowances for it.
“But at some point, I need to also acknowledge the massive effort that all these guys are putting in. Radu and Ben were outstanding again today.”
Postecoglou explained Romero could “potentially” return to action on Thursday when Spurs visit Bournemouth.
