Ange hits back at critics

Socceroos boss focused on Cup qualifiers

A passionate Ange Postecoglou has admitted he doesn’t know whether he intends to continue as Socceroos coach if his side beats Honduras in a play-off to earn a place at the World Cup.

Refusing to clarify his position once more, Postecoglou launched a fierce defence of his time as Socceroos coach and the legacy he will leave behind.

At an emotional press conference yesterday to announce the squad of players to take on Honduras over two legs, Postecoglou said questions over his future were “hypothetical” and “irrelevant” until after the second leg in Sydney on November 15.

At times appearing to contradict himself, Postecoglou said his future was “crystal clear” and “the only one that’s certain”, as he took aim at critics despite insisting he was immune to their attacks.

Speaking to the media for the first time since reports surfaced early last month that he would walk away

after the Honduran games no matter the result, Postecoglou was asked directly if he knew in his own mind what he intended to do.

“No, not really,” he answered, before denying his players would be affected by the uncertainty.

“Some (people) suggest there’s disharmony so maybe some (players) will be happy if I’m going. It’s all hypothetical and irrelevant.

“All along we’ve been focused on these two games and my intent is clear – to make sure we qualify.

“My future is not why the players are there. They are there to represent their country.”

Shrugging off calls from a handful of former Socceroos for him to quit now, Postecoglou said he welcomed debate.

“It doesn’t hurt me. That’s how people want to define me at the present moment after 30 years of football in this country,” he said.

“If I start changing the way I am because of that kind of stuff, then I do tarnish my legacy.”