Ange Postecoglou's new responsibilities for Guglielmo Vicario may explain the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper's fierce tirade at 18-year-old midfielder Lucas Bergvall. After a promising first half, Spurs were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw away to newly promoted Leicester City.
However, it could have been even worse for the north Londoners, as Vicario made strong stops from both Jamie Vardy and Wilfred N'Didi to ensure Tottenham returned to the capital with at least a point. In the build-up to the latter's chance, Bergvall gave the ball away in a dangerous area, which led to the cross that N'Didi latched upon to head towards goal in the dying moments of injury time.
When he made the save, Vicario returned to his feet, marched towards the young Swede and unleashed a wide-eyed, verbal tirade at the teenager. Considering Postecoglou's previous comments on the Italian international, the Australian has given Vicario the freedom to command and, at times, berate team-mates who are not doing their jobs properly.
In the pre-season, Postecoglou said: "As soon as I had a conversation with him, I knew he was the right bloke for us. Beyond being an outstanding goalkeeper, he is an outstanding human being.
"If you bring a person like that into your dressing room, it's going to give you more than just a goalkeeper. He is the kind of guy who is going to have an influence over everything we do.
"He is going to have an influence over what I do and that's how I keep learning - by bringing these kinds of players in."
Vicario's outburst left Tottenham supporters divided, reports Football London. Some on X believe his stern approach to the young player was uncalled for, while others back the Italian, arguing that Bergvall shouldn't expect to be treated any differently.
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In the summer, Vicario also revealed that he has been given some extra leadership responsibilities by his manager. In an interview with the Athletic, the ex-Empoli goalkeeper said: "I'm one of the oldest players in this group.
"It's just my second year, but I feel like I have more responsibilities than last season. It's a big honour for me to have this opportunity to be with the young players more and to speak with them.
"I'm very happy with this new role inside the dressing room, but I have to do it in a humble way and try to just give them good advice so that they are in a great mind for the team."
Tottenham host a wounded Everton side, who were dismantled 3-0 at home by Brighton and Hove Albion, in their next Premier League match this Saturday.