Ange Postecoglou sarcastically fired back at a reporter after being left stunned regarding a question about Yves Bissouma's recent skiing trip.
The Tottenham Hotspur boss was forced to defend the Mali international over clarification on whether the midfielder's mini-getaway was sanctioned.
After a weekend off with Spurs out of the FA Cup, the north London outfit are back in action on Thursday in their Europa League last-16 tie away at AZ Alkmaar.
Ahead of the match, Bissouma took to Instagram on Monday to share images of himself at a ski resort.
And in Postecoglou's pre-match press conference on Wednesday, one reporter looked to quiz the Australian on whether he had given his players time off ahead of a crucial match.
The ex-Celtic boss was left mystified by the question as he closed his eyes in almost disbelief, before having a little chuckle to himself.
Sarcastically responding, the 59-year-old said: "Seriously, what sort of question is that?
"No I didn’t, we were training but he decided to go skiing…
"Come on mate, you’re better than that!"
Refusing to back down, Postecoglou was then asked whether Bissouma did indeed go skiing.
Issuing a bullish response, he remarked: "Well, he obviously did."
As for his views on whether he has any concerns over the leisurely activity, Postecoglou remarked: "I don’t worry about those things, mate.
"They’re adults, they’re human beings, they had a couple of days off.
"They can choose to use that time as wisely as they can to help them be ready for what’s in store for us.
"You kind of hope that they’re sensible about these things and go about whatever they do in a manner that befits the position they hold, but I have no concerns... and he’s fine."
Bissouma is in line to feature for Spurs in their last-16 first leg tie against AZ Alkmaar, who they beat 1-0 during the league phase of the Europa League in October.
The 28-year-old has featured in 32 games in all competitions this season - scoring two goals.
And he will be vying to be named in Postecoglou's line-up having been left on the bench during their previous 1-0 home defeat to Manchester City.
The Europa League represents Spurs' only chance of silverware this season as they look to win a first trophy since 2008.