Ange Postecoglou receives apology after Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens shockingly pokes fun of Tottenham head coach in unprovoked attack

Tottenham duo Josh Keeley and Jamie Donley are currently on season-long loans at Orient, and so far they have impressed for the League One play-off chasers. Os boss Wellens then caused controversy when asked about how much his team's 1-0 loss to Stockport County on Saturday was down to the injuries of defenders Sean Clare and Omar Beckles.

He said: "I'm not Ange Postecoglou, [who] keeps using it as an excuse." Following a backlash on social media, he has apologised.

He told Orient's website: "After today’s game, I was asked about the injuries within our squad and, without thinking, I made a stupid comment about Tottenham Hotspur. That comment was brought to my attention later in the evening and having watched my interview back I am deeply embarrassed and regret what I said. At Leyton Orient, we have a strong relationship with Tottenham Hotspur and it was never my intention to say anything that would jeopardise that. Their manager, Ange Postecoglou, is a world-class coach and I want to apologise for my comments and wish Spurs all the very best for the second half of the season."

While Postecoglou has repeatedly acknowledged how badly affected Tottenham have been by injuries this season, Wellens' remarks were unwise - especially when Spurs are providing them with two of their own players. Goalkeeper Keeley has kept 12 clean sheets and is part of one of the division's best defences and forward Donley has 11 goal contributions.

Elsewhere, Postecoglou will be focusing on his Spurs side beating London neighbours Brentford on Sunday in the Premier League.