WATCH: Ange Postecoglou tears into journalist who wrote Tottenham boss may be remembered as a 'clown' in awkward Europa League final press conference

As Spurs prepare to face Manchester United in the Europa League final in Bilbao on Wednesday night, Postecoglou was confronted with a question from an Evening Standard journalist, which implied the manager was walking a "fine line" between success and failure. The question seemed to echo a recent column that described Postecoglou as "teetering between hero and clown" - a phrase that drew a passionate and pointed response.

Postecoglou said: "That depends on your outlook, Dan. But I'll tell you one thing, irrespective of tomorrow, I'm not a clown, I never will be mate. Really disappointed you used such terminology about a person who for 26 years, without any favours from anyone, has worked his way to be in a position where he's leading a club in a European major competition. For you to suggest that, somehow, us not being successful means that I'm a clown, not really sure how to answer that question."

Tottenham’s current Premier League position does little to reflect the level of success they’ve had in Europe this season. Sitting 17th in the table with just one game remaining, this is Spurs’ worst domestic campaign since their relegation in 1977. Reports have suggested that even a Europa League triumph might not guarantee his stay at the club, but the manager himself appears unbothered by the speculation.

"My future is assured mate, don't... I wouldn't be the first person who changes jobs mate, we all change jobs, I'm sure you've had more than one job," Postecoglou continued. "My future's assured. I've got a beautiful family, I've got a great life, I'll keep on winning trophies until I finish, wherever that is. So, don't worry about my future mate. My future is not tied with anything, my future is assured. Provided, God willing, my health remains, my beautiful family is beside me, my friends, there's nothing wrong with my future mate."

While Spurs’ domestic form has raised eyebrows, Postecoglou’s history shows that he often delivers silverware in his second year at a club. This pattern was evident at South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, and Celtic, all of whom he led to trophies during his second season at the helm. True to form, his second year in charge at Tottenham has at least brought the club to the brink of European glory, a feat few predicted when the campaign began. Now, all eyes will be on Tottenham's display against United at Bilbao on Wednesday evening as they are vying for a first silverware since 2008.