Yves Bissouma thanks 'dad' Ange Postecoglou for 'protecting' Tottenham squad ahead of UEFA Europa League final

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Ange Postecoglou and Yves Bissouma have both had difficult moments over the course of Tottenham's current season in the Premier League, but the club have a shot at glory on Wednesday night when they play Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao, live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Midfielder Bissouma praised Postecoglou for shielding the squad during a tough campaign.

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Video credit: TNT Sports

Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma described manager Ange Postecoglou as "like a dad" given the way he has been "protecting" the players during tough times.

The Australian might have anticipated a more successful Premier League challenge in his second year in north London, but an injury crisis has seen them drop to 17th.

Postecoglou has also come in for criticism for failing to change his tactical approach when missing key players from his squad.

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However, the campaign could finish on a high note if they beat Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday - live on TNT Sports and discovery+ - a feat which would reward them with a trophy and UEFA Champions League football next season.

Bissouma praised the manager’s relationship with the players, explaining: "It's never changed. We have a good relationship.

"He's like a dad or uncle for us. He's always trying to make us understand what he really wants.

"For us, he's Ange, he's him. He's got his idea. He's trying to help us every time. He's always protecting us."

Bissouma is demanding more of himself, adding: "Of course there's more to come [from me]. We are always here for learning, I'm still learning.

"This season has been hard for me because I didn't play much.

"The only thing I know is you have to work hard and never give up and be ready when your team needs you. That's what I'm always trying to do.

"We know what we have to do. We have to win this cup because for us it's really important."

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Video credit: TNT Sports

Speaking to TNT Sports, captain Son Heung-min illustrated the strength of the camaraderie at the club by saying that his team-mates are aiming for a win to help him finally taste success at the club.

The 32-year-old is in his 10th year at the club and he is yet to lift a trophy with Tottenham.

He said: "The boys want to win something for me, I can see that, I feel it, and I really, really appreciate that and also the fans.

"But I think it's not all about me, I want to do it for them. I want to do it for the team, the staff and the fans."

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