Ange Postecoglou’s Europa League triumph can open more doors for Australian coaches overseas while lifting the profile of football in his home country.
That’s the firm belief of Melbourne Victory coach and fellow Greek Australian Arthur Diles as Australian football celebrates its greatest trailblazer’s latest accomplishment.
Postecoglou became the first Australian manager to win a trophy in a major European club competition as Tottenham beat fellow Premier League strugglers Manchester United 1-0 in Bilbao on Wednesday night for their first silverware in 17 years.
The Melburnian adds that silverware to his trophy-laden stints at Celtic, Yokohama F.Marinos, the Socceroos, Brisbane Roar and South Melbourne.
“It’s a huge moment for Australian football coaches, everyone involved in football in Australia,” Diles said.
“I’d like to think that everyone is behind me in saying that he deserves all the credit he gets.
“He’s flying the flag for us. He’s opened up so many opportunities for other Australian coaches in Asia, and I’m assuming, and I’m thinking, that he’ll open up doors in Europe as well.
“It couldn’t have happened to a better person, a better coach. So well done to him.
“He’s someone that I think all people in Australia and young coaches like myself look up to and admire and respect.”
One of Postecoglou’s great laments was the lack of recognition for football achievements garnered in Australia compared to other codes.
Diles hopes the outpouring of love for the former Socceroos boss’ achievements can have a halo effect in his home country.
“What it does is brings more attention to our sport in this country,” he said.
“If anything, we don’t get enough recognition or limelight or support in this country, and moments like this can hopefully help generate more interest in the game.
“Because we need that to grow this game, that’s the most beautiful game in the world, and all these little things help.”
Postecoglou had a short stint at Victory between his dominant era at the Roar and his appointment as Socceroos boss.
Victory players watched the highlights of Tottenham’s triumph when they arrived at the club on Thursday morning.
“It’s really just inspirational, especially we can see him on the walls here at Melbourne Victory,” Victory attacker and Young Socceroos star Alex Badolato said.
“We see all the stuff that he’s done as we’re walking out to play.
“To see that he’s done that, and then go overseas and do what he’s done over there, it’s really inspirational, especially for the young boys like myself.”
Source: AAP
