Ange Postecoglou is relishing the chance to return to Glasgow as his Tottenham side prepares to face Rangers at Ibrox in the Europa League this evening.
The former Celtic manager, who spent two successful years at Parkhead, will encounter familiar surroundings but with a very different challenge ahead.
During his time in charge of Celtic, Postecoglou secured five trophies, including a domestic Treble in his second season. However, he now finds himself under scrutiny, with Tottenham struggling for consistency.
The North London side has won just one of their last seven matches in all competitions, leaving them 11th in the Premier League table with 20 points from 15 games.
In contrast, Spurs have fared better in Europe, sitting level on 10 points with Rangers in their Europa League group.
Both teams are vying for a spot in the top eight of the new 36-team tournament format. Tonight’s clash at Ibrox could prove decisive in shaping their European ambitions.
Postecoglou has mixed memories of Ibrox from his Celtic days. In four visits, he won once, drew once, and suffered two defeats.
His lone victory came in April 2022, a 2-1 triumph courtesy of goals from Tom Rogic and Cameron Carter-Vickers, a result that played a pivotal role in Celtic reclaiming the league title.
Now, Postecoglou is targeting a crucial win at Ibrox to alleviate the mounting pressure from media and fans while boosting Spurs’ European hopes.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the match, he reflected on his time in Scotland and the challenge that awaits.
“I’m looking forward to it. I had a great time up there in the two years I was there. Fair to say, Ibrox can be fairly intense and I’m sure we’ll feel that,” he said.
“But it’s a great stadium to play football in. The atmosphere, European nights. Even when I was there, they did awfully well in Europe. The first year I was there they got to the Europa League final.”
He added, “You know how European nights, irrespective of their league form, they really rise for, so it’s a good challenge for us. I’m also looking forward to being back in Glasgow and feeling the cold again and hopefully see some friendly faces among the others.”
Victory at Ibrox would not only boost Tottenham’s European campaign but also provide a timely lift for Postecoglou amid a challenging spell in his new role.