10 Dec Former Tottenham manager backs Postecoglou to make Premier League “leap of faith”

FA Cup winning manager Harry Redknapp has backed Ange Postecoglou to be a success in the Premier League, if given the chance.

Postecoglou’s stocks are at an all-time high after clinching the J-League title with Yokohama F. Marinos and Redknapp says he could follow Arsene Wenger’s unique pathway to English football.

Wenger arrived at Arsenal from J-League side Nagoya Grampus and went on to win three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups during his decorated 21-year tenure with the Gunners.

“Sometimes club owners take a gamble — that was the case with Arsenal way back (with Wenger) and for somebody like Ange Postecoglou to get an opportunity at a good European club, whether in England or elsewhere, you just need that leap of faith,” Redknapp told SBS.

“When you win a title in Japan you’re going to get noticed, especially with a club that’s part of the City Football Group (owners of Manchester City).

“It’s the best league in Asia and what he’s done there is a special achievement for any coach.

“Why couldn’t he come to a place like England, if that’s what he wants to do, and do well at a high level?

“The fact that Postecoglou is Australian shouldn’t be a factor either way. If you’re good enough it doesn’t matter where you’re from, whether you’re a player or a coach.”

Postecoglou got the better of Redknapp in their only coaching meeting when Australia defeated Jordan 5-1 in 2016.

The former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory coach re-signed with Yokohama for another season.