Postecoglou humbled by fourth division side in cup shock before waving goodbye

Celtic managerial target Ange Postecoglou refused to speak about the Celtic manager’s role last week despite heavy links with the vacancy at Parkhead.

But the Yokohamas F.marinos manager’s actions at the end of his side’s thrilling – and shocking – Emperor’s Cup exit to fourth division Honda FC hinted the J-league club’s fans may have seen the last of the Australian in Japan.

After defeat to the fourth division amateurs on penalties, Postecoglou walked to the Yokohama fans and gestured fondly to the crowd before returning to the dressing room.

According to widespread speculation, his move to Celtic as Neil Lennon’s replacement is to be confirmed this week and the boss is expected to fly to Scotland – but the Asian Cup winning manager refused to be drawn on the links after his weekend match against Consadole Sapporo.

Postecoglou saw his team taken to extra-time in the Emperor’s Cup clash with fourth division Honda FC. But the Nissan Stadium was stunned by the visitors’ 28th minute penalty converted by Honda goalkeeper Yuki Kusumoto – and smashed high into the net for a lead they held into the second half.

Marinos levelled and then took the lead in extra-time, only to be pegged back and then defeated in a penalty shoot-out 5-3.

Defeat comes as a huge shock to the 2019 J-league champions who are currently third in the first-tier league, but have five games in hand on leaders Kawasaki Frontale who were also taken to penalties in their cup clash by tier three side Nagano Parceiro. The league leaders edged through 4-3.

Postecoglou was not quite as fortunate and on the end of a giant-killing in what is expected to be his final match in charge of the Yokohama club he led to the J-league title two years ago.

The former Australian national team manager has dodged questions over his expected move to Scotland.

Previously Postecoglou led Australia to two successful World Cup qualifications and an Asian Cup triumph in 2015. He is now the leading contender for the Parkhead role after a deal for Eddie Howe collapsed.