“It’s a strategy,” said Tottenham manager Ange Postocoglou. “You can label it, but it’s a strategy. I don’t take a lot of interest in that stuff, never have. I’m not casting judgement, but I just don’t really care. If people are going to think that’s going to give them an advantage or whatever, I just don’t worry about that stuff. I just try to focus on building teams that win things.
“If it’s not going to be that (undoing gloves) then it’s going to be something else. Who cares? I know it’s great theatre. Whether he’s trying to undo his glove, tickle his armpit, or whatever, I don’t care. I try to get my players not to worry about that stuff. It’s not important. And if you want to go down that avenue, what’s he (Vicario) supposed to do? Turn around and throw a punch and knock him out, or say, ‘Please don’t touch me’? What does that do?
“Seriously, we’re not in the schoolyard. It’s never been where my focus lies. To be honest, if I saw one of my players do it I’d be saying, ‘Mate, seriously? Get the ball and play some football.’ That doesn’t mean it’s not a strategy that can’t be used, but I just don’t care about it.”