Postecoglou acknowledges Tottenham’s submission of evidence to PGMOL after Vicario was targeted.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has revealed that the club approached the PGMOL with evidence of Guglielmo Vicario being obstructed during recent matches against Manchester City and Everton. Postecoglou expressed frustration about Vicario being impeded on the pitch from corners and free-kicks.
He stated that although he usually does not question referees, he thought it necessary to seek clarity on the rules regarding how goalkeepers can be challenged off the ball in their penalty area. Postecoglou mentioned that the club provided evidence to highlight instances where Vicario was obstructed by the opposition to prevent him from effectively defending set pieces.
Postecoglou added that he finds it bizarre that certain obstructions are not being penalized, mentioning a perceived shift in the rules pertaining to goalkeeper protection. He expressed concerns about the implications of VAR and the challenge for goalkeepers to be stronger when facing obstructions while noting instances where he believes there were fouls on the goalkeeper that were not called.
He praised Vicario for his handling of the situation and emphasized the need for clarity on the rules in order to ensure fair and consistent application during matches. Postecoglou also acknowledged that there may have been a rule change, but highlighted what he sees as a noticeable shift in the way goalkeepers are being treated in games.
