'Aussie' Ange Postecoglou has become accustomed to being underestimated in football circles - and on Friday he left an English journalist red-faced following a scarcely believable 'backhand compliment.'

Speaking ahead of this weekend's away clash versus Burnley and the transfer deadline, the scribe asked the Tottenham manager about 'Angeball' and if he had seen the recent online tribute from pop star Robbie Williams. 

Problem was, the questions came across as beyond condescending.

'This club have had some big managers, some historic managers down the years, but you've achieved something already that none of them have as none of them have had a pop song sung about them,' the reporter asked.

'Firstly, do you know Robbie Williams, have you met him, and what did you think when you heard the lyrics had been changed to one of his most famous songs [Angels] and he was singing it?'

Ange Postecoglou is used to being underestimated in football circles - and on Friday he left an English journalist red-faced following a scarcely believable 'backhand compliment'

Postecoglou was initially in disbelief, but the former Celtic and Socceroos boss composed himself before firing back a hilarious response.

'That's one of most backhanded underwhelming compliments I've ever had,' he said.

'You've had some unbelievably fantastic managers, big names, successful... and then there's you [Ange.] And then have I ever heard of Robbie Williams? Where have I been living mate? I mean seriously.

'Look, I love Robbie Williams, I think he's brilliant, a great entertainer. He did the song, I think it came off the back of one of our supporters. 

'Look it's great, the alternative is they make up songs about you that are less than complimentary. 'So I'll take it for what it is, but yeah thanks mate. I'll just float out of here feeling good about myself.'

While Postecoglou may have felt wounded by the brutal questions, he would have been elated after Spurs landed Brennan Johnson from Nottingham Forest.

The 22-year-old rising star - who can play as a winger or striker - has signed a six-year deal. 

And despite plenty of detractors feeling Postecoglou would be out of his depth in the Premier League, Tottenham are flying high in third spot, unbeaten after three matches.