Speaking in the aftermath of the Europa League final victory, Postecoglou made clear his hope he would stay in charge.
It seemed perfectly reasonable, with a trophy and Champions League qualification not generally leading to the sacking of a manager.
Unfortunately for Postecoglou, Daniel Levy simply wasn’t for turning – the Tottenham chairman sticking with ‘Plan A’ to dispense with the Australian.
The euphoria and affection directed towards Postecoglou from players and supporters may have run some interference, but not enough to change the direction of travel.
Had Spurs lost to United, it is widely acknowledged Postecoglou would have been relieved of his duties before now.
Victory added some emotion into the equation – but clearly not enough for Levy to have a change of heart.
The delay in making the decision is the result of various factors. Most pertinently, Postecoglou, Levy and chief football officer Scott Munn – whose job is also under threat – were away last week.
But sources have also claimed Levy wanted to put time between the emotional outpouring that came after the final and making his decision.
At the heart of his thinking was Tottenham’s 17th-place finish in the Premier League after 22 losses in 38 matches. In the end, he could not look past it.
In fact in the statement announcing his sacking, Spurs pointed out – with eye-opening precision – the team had taken 78 points from their past 66 games.
