'I've gone past my boyhood crushes!' - Ange Postecoglou insists he has no love left Liverpool as Tottenham plan to ruin title party

Postecoglou insisted his boyhood affection for Liverpool will have no impact on his desire to prevent them from winning the Premier League title this Sunday, with the Reds needing just a point against Spurs to secure a record-tying 20th English championship. Postecoglou has previously spoken of his admiration for Liverpool but emphatically dismissed any notion of mixed emotions should Tottenham delay their celebrations.

The title race is all but over after Arsenal once again dropped points in midweek. The Gunners were held to their 13th draw of the season in a London derby with Crystal Palace, putting Liverpool on the cusp of history. 

Destined for a bottom-half finish in a season that could cost Postecoglou his job as manager, Spurs’ focus for the rest of the campaign is on attempting to clinch Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League. Spurs face Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of the semi-finals on Thursday, but Postecoglou made it clear nothing will stop him seeking a result at Anfield.

Asked if his previous fondness for Liverpool would have any impact on his emotions, Postecoglou told a press conference: "I’m a 60-year-old adult, I’ve gone past my boyhood crushes. It’s got no impact whatsoever. I have great admiration for the football club. Yes, I supported it when I was younger, but that was 50-odd years ago so we’ve well and truly moved on since then."

Sunday’s game may be defining for Liverpool, but it is unlikely to have much influence on Postecoglou’s long-term future. There is already talk he could be sacked by Tottenham even if they win the Europa League, but any hope of him staying in a job likely rests on that competition. As such, Postecoglou may need to be smart in how he manages his team against Liverpool to ensure the squad is in the best shape possible for the first leg with Bodo/Glimt.