After Manchester United’s defeat, Bruno Fernandes argued that the challenge was “never a red” – claiming it was a foul but not an expulsion – but Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou declined to get into the discussion, praising his team 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. The London club took full advantage, with Dejan Kulusevski scoring the second after the interval and Dominic Solanke adding the third.
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 when United was reduced to 10 men.
“I thought it was an outstanding performance,” he said afterwards. “Started the game beautifully, scored a wonderful 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 boys made a fantastic effort.
Fernandes said it wasn’t a red card, telling the reporters 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 touch 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 previous time they played here in the Premier League.
But Ten Hag remained defiant in his post-match news conference, stating that the club’s owners, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are still behind him and have opted to continue 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 team.
“All of the decisions were made together, with the understanding that it would take some time. We’re all on the same page, one boat, including the owners, leadership, staff, and players.
