Tottenham came back to secure a point against Rangers in the Europa League, but Timo Werner’s performance was unacceptable according to his manager, Ange Postecoglou.
Despite the makeshift defence of Radu Dragusin and Archie Gray, Tottenham were able to field a reasonably strong starting XI.
Dominic Solanke was rested which meant Heung-min Son played as the striker and Timo Werner played on the left.
However, it was a night to forget for Timo Werner who was substituted at half-time. Werner made no tackles, completed no accurate crosses (as Brennan Johnson was offside), had no successful dribbles and no shots on target (FotMob).
He was replaced by Dejan Kulusevski who brought a level of technical skill to the side, which was essential to Spurs’ earning a point.
Speaking to FootballLondon, Ange Postecglou shared his opinion on Werner’s performance.
“He wasn’t playing anywhere near the levels he can. When you’ve got 18-year-olds, it’s not acceptable to me. I told him that. He’s a senior international, a German international.
“In the moment we’re in now, I need everyone to be at least going out there and giving the best they can. What he produced wasn’t acceptable. When I’m asking the younger players to do massive jobs, I expect more from the senior players like him.”
Several of Spurs’ players could have performed better against Rangers, but there are at least extenuating circumstances for some of the squad.
Archie Gray misplaced some of his passes, but as an 18-year-old playing out of position, that can be understood. Additionally, Pedro Porro lost his man for Ranger’s goal, but Porro has played the second most minutes of any Tottenham player this season (after Udogie) and fatigue is a reasonable caveat.
Timo Werner has played the second-fewest minutes of any available senior player and should be in a position to contribute more when required. With more games to come, it can only be hoped that Werner takes on Postecoglou’s words and can find a way to contribute to the team when called upon again.
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