A smiling Ange Postecoglou says he is relishing the prospect of returning to Ibrox as he prepares his Tottenham side to face Rangers in the Europa League.
The former Celtic boss finds himself under increasing scrutiny as Spurs endure a four-game winless streak, leaving them 11th in the Premier League table.
Last weekend’s dramatic 4-3 collapse against Chelsea sparked anger among some sections of the Tottenham fan base, piling pressure on Postecoglou ahead of his return to Glasgow.
Despite his success over Rangers during two trophy-laden years at Celtic, Ibrox proved to be a mixed venue for the Greek-Australian.
In four visits, he secured just one win, alongside a draw and two defeats. Speaking ahead of Thursday’s clash, Postecoglou admitted he expects a hostile reception but insisted he’s looking forward to it.
“I think you know what kind of reception I’ll get. I loved it,” he said.
“It was different experiences, mixed. I think the first one we were here we lost and then the next one when we only had 500-600 in the building we won and that was pretty special. But I’ve enjoyed all the games against Rangers, all the derbies, the big games here in Scotland obviously and usually very significant games.
“They’re either title deciders or cup knockouts. So they’re always big games and I enjoyed them all. I enjoyed the atmosphere. Obviously, European nights here, it’s going to be something you want to be a part of and hopefully overcome.”
When asked if he enjoys stepping into the “bear pit” of Ibrox, Postecoglou embraced the challenge.
“I’m like everyone else. I like a bit of love now and again but I do enjoy that. Once you experience football in empty stadiums you realise how meaningless it is.
“As much as you go, ‘it could be hostile tomorrow,’ that is what we love about the game. Ultimately it is a game that evokes passion and emotions. Sometimes that is not always positive. But I would rather that than playing somewhere sterile.”
With his team needing a win, Postecoglou’s return to Glasgow promises to be another fiery chapter in his relationship with Rangers and their supporters.
