Richarlison’s match-winning stoppage-time cameo against Sheffield United can help ease his off-field troubles, says Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou.
The Brazil striker, who said this week he would “seek psychological help” for personal issues, came off the bench to head Spurs level eight minutes into the 16 added on.
He then turned provider by picking out an unmarked Dejan Kulusevski in the box for the Sweden midfielder to fire home the winner.
“We’ve got to maintain a balance in life and even for him, he needs to understand his football is still good. He’s a fantastic footballer,” Postecoglou told BBC Sport.
“He’s got so much to give and that can help ease the burden he’s feeling in other parts of his life. I’m really pleased for him.”
Until Richarlison’s intervention, Spurs’ unbeaten Premier League start under Postecoglou looked to be coming to an end thanks to a Gustavo Hamer strike that crept in off a post.
Sheffield United had seemingly engineered a classic smash-and-grab away victory after soaking up pressure for long periods, with goalkeeper Wes Foderingham making a number of fine saves.
But Richarlison glanced home fellow substitute Ivan Perisic’s corner before Kulusevski left the gallant visitors, who had Oli McBurnie sent off at the end, broken-hearted.
Having trailed until the 98th minute, Tottenham’s turnaround was the latest winning comeback in Premier League history.
“There’s some real resilience and spirit within that group already, which is great to see because they are a relatively new group,” said Postecoglou.
“You get tested on days like this. It helps fuel belief for us to grow. Our supporters have had an unforgettable day and all those things help in what we are trying to do.”
(BBC Sport)
