Ange Postecoglou backs underperforming Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has come to the defence of Richarlison, who has been underperforming for the club recently.

The Brazil international has big shoes to fill up front for the North London side after the departure of Harry Kane. Bayern Munich acquired the services of the 30-year-old in the ongoing transfer window.

Spurs have started with the former Everton star in the number nine position in the first two games of the new season. Unfortunately, the 26-year-old has looked lacklustre and has not been able to do much.

But speaking to the media via football.london, Postecoglou has come to the defence of Richarlison. The Australian manager feels it is still early in the season to worry about the striker.

“We are two games into a season where he has helped us when our football is not where we need to be to get a couple of promising results and hopefully that continues. Of course there is always a point [when you have a chat] but we are nowhere near that at the moment.”

In the summer of 2022, the Brazilian signed for Tottenham from the Toffees. Subsequently, he started in just 12 league matches in the 2022/23 term, with Kane playing up top.

Overall, Richarlison’s debut season at the North London side was underwhelming. In 35 appearances in all competitions for us in the previous campaign, the forward scored three goals and provided four assists.

Unfortunately, the Brazilian has not shown any encouraging signs under Postecoglou so far, either. Against Brentford and Manchester United, the striker struggled to get on the ball much and contribute to our play.

However, the gaffer does not have a lot of options at his disposal for the number nine position. Son Heung-min has played that role a few times, but then, arguably, the left-wing would have to be compromised.

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Hopefully, the Australian manager will be able to get the best out of Richarlison in the coming weeks. The Brazilian had showcased his talent on a consistent basis at Everton and still continues to perform for the national side. Thus, there is a quality player in there.