Ange Postecoglou has hit back at a Saudi journalist who questioned his tactical changes, telling the media to "smile" after leading Al Nassr to three consecutive wins. The former Celtic boss, four months into his reign with the Saudi Pro League champions, delivered a sarcastic response to criticism over his handling of Brazilian utility man Angelo Gabriel.
Reporter Questions Gabriel's Position
The journalist asked Postecoglou why he keeps changing tactics and why Gabriel, who impressed as a central midfielder last season, has been moved around. The reporter said: "You change the tactics in many games. Every time, you change the tactic. Angelo played good in the position last year. Why do you change the position?"
Gabriel, 21, has played as a winger, midfielder, and No.10 under Postecoglou this season, contributing four goals and four assists so far. The versatile player has been a key part of the team's recent success.
Postecoglou's Sarcastic Response
The 61-year-old responded: "Because I want to win games and we're winning games. So that's why. If we're losing then it's a different question. But we're winning, yeah? It's my job."
He added: "I think after the last game we won, everyone said to me 'smile'. I think maybe you guys... just smile a little bit. We won, yeah? If you're not happy with us winning games of football... every game is different. It's a different challenge."
Postecoglou also pointed to the team's chances in recent matches, saying: "Maybe today we could have won 3-0 or 4-0. We had enough chances, yes? Yes? Yes? Yes? Yes? So maybe if we didn't play well, we didn't create chances... maybe you can talk about tactics."
Al Nassr's Strong Start
Postecoglou, who has previously managed Tottenham and Celtic, has already had several run-ins with the Saudi press since taking charge. Local reporters have not been shy about questioning his tactics or his handling of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite the criticism, Al Nassr sit third in the Saudi Pro League after seven wins from their opening nine games. The Europa League-winning boss has led the team to three wins on the bounce, and his side continue to challenge at the top of the table.
