Ange Postecoglou said he ‘loves defenders scoring’ after Micky van de Ven and Pedro Porro were on target in Tottenham’s 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
The north Londoners climbed into the Premier League’s top four after a home win on Sunday, moving ahead of Aston Villa on goal difference, with a game in hand.
An own goal from Murillo opened the scoring for Spurs, though Forest levelled before the break as Chris Wood turned in his 12th goal of the Premier League campaign.
Van de Ven restored Spurs’ lead with a thunderous drive after being teed up by Son Heung-min, before Pedro Porro wrapped up the win.
Postecoglou was pleased with how Spurs imposed themselves of the game, and said he was delighted with the attacking contribution of his defenders.
“It had a bit of everything. We got off to a decent start. We imposed ourselves on the game. We lost our way a little bit but the whole second half we were very dominant,” he told Sky Sports.
“I love defenders scoring. We were pushing them into those areas.”
The Australian discussed the impact of Van de Ven this season, with the Dutch defender having been an eye-catching performer since his summer arrival from Wolfsburg.
On what has impressed him about the 22-year-old, Postecoglou said: “Just his sheer desire to be the best he can be. He’s got so many great qualities. People talk about his speed but he’s strong and he’s getting better and better on the ball.”
Tottenham next look to continue their Champions League push with a tough trip to Newcastle next weekend. Ahead of the visit to St James’ Park, Postecoglou believes his team are in ‘good shape’ to finish the run-in strongly.
“That’s all we want to do and keep going. Everyone has been banging on about us getting fourth. We’re fourth now but it doesn’t stop, we’ll keep going.
“We’re in a good shape to finish the season strong.”
