Timo Werner: The forward's "unacceptable" performance in Tottenham's Europa League tie with Rangers is criticised by Ange Postecoglou
Dejan Kulusevski's equaliser helped Tottenham draw 1-1 with Rangers in the Europa League; Timo Werner was substituted at halftime by a Sweden international; 18-year-old Archie Grey started at centre-back for Spurs, while Lucas Bergvall, another teenager, was added in the second half.
Timo Werner's performance in Tottenham's Europa League match with Rangers was deemed "unacceptable" and "anywhere near the level" that was needed by Ange Postecoglou.
Dejan Kulusevski, who equalised with 15 minutes left, replaced Werner at halftime in the Europa League match at Ibrox.
Hamza Igamane's goal gave Rangers a well-earned lead at the beginning of the second half. Tottenham started 18-year-old Archie Grey as a makeshift centre-back and, with an hour remaining, substituted another teenager, Lucas Bergvall.
Werner's performance infuriated the former Celtic manager, who has seen his team go winless in their last five games.
"He wasn't playing anywhere near the level he should," Postecoglou stated. "I told Timo that I don't think it's appropriate when 18-year-olds are playing. He is a senior international for Germany.
"We don't really have many options at the moment we're in. At minimum, I need everyone to try their hardest and give it their all. His first-half performance was unacceptable.
"I don't really know," Postecoglou responded when asked how Werner removed the dressing. There's not much to worry about. We don't have the depth to exclude those who aren't performing well, therefore we need everyone to be contributing, including him.
"They must do their share, especially the older men. I expect some older men to perform at a certain level when I ask younger guys to accomplish big tasks, and today wasn't one of those days."
After initially joining Spurs on loan from RB Leipzig in January, Werner decided to stay until the conclusion of the current campaign. This season, he has made 19 appearances and netted one goal.
Kulusevski: More must be done by everyone
Goal scorer Dejan Kulusevski of Tottenham says:
We had a little trouble, but Rangers performed really well. Our performance wasn't good enough to win the game. Rangers played flawlessly. They were greatly assisted by the supporters, and the stadium is stunning.
"I tried to change things and make things happen, and I was partially successful today. While scoring goals is always crucial, we need to start winning games right now. On Sunday, it is time to win.
"Everybody needs to do a little more than we're doing now."
