'I'm Surprised' - Ian Darke baffled by Tottenham behind-the-scenes reluctance

Ian Darke is surprised by Tottenham Hotspur’s insistence on working without a set-piece coach.

Ange Postecoglou, previously quizzed on the matter, reinforced that Spurs do not need a specialist on attacking and defending set-pieces [Daily Mail, 15 September] – the latter catching them cold in Sunday’s North London derby as they conceded a decisive “Sunday morning goal” to Gabriel Magalhaes.

Spurs are one of a decreasing number of clubs not to have appointed a set-piece coach, but Darke is puzzled at Postecoglou’s stance on the situation.

Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, the TNT Sports commentator said: “I’m surprised as to why Tottenham don’t have a set-piece coach.

“They dominated possession and shots against Arsenal, and they’ve lost the game to what defensively is a Sunday morning goal in parks football.

“I think they have to do better. Spurs are one of a small number of clubs who don’t have one these days.”

Postecoglou refuses set-piece coach at Tottenham

Postecoglou’s reaction to Sunday’s derby defeat has seen him stick his head out once more and own the decision not to employ a specialist from dead-ball situations at Tottenham.

Admitting it is his “burden to carry”, the Australian leaves himself wide open to scrutiny the next time Spurs come undone from a corner or free-kick.

And next up this could come under fire again with this weekend’s visit of Brentford – whose last Premier League line-up included Kristoffer Ajer, Ethan Pinnock, Nathan Collins, Christian Norgaard and Sepp van den Berg – all over 6’2” in height.

It may reach a point Postecoglou has to cut the stubbornness and embrace the assistance in this department, as the North London derby frustration mimics last season’s first-half disaster with set-pieces from the Gunners.

A horrific case of deja vu may just occur on Saturday if the Lilywhites aren’t careful, and it could be costly in the longer term.

In other Tottenham news, a moment from Ben Davies which helped save Spurs at Coventry City in the Carabao Cup.

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