Public backing from a host of players – including key figures Cristian Romero and James Maddison – and the squad’s determination to include Postecoglou in their on-pitch celebrations in Bilbao appeared to be an indication of deep connections.
But it had not gone unnoticed that Postecoglou had become increasingly distant from the squad in recent months.
At the start of his reign, the Australian would regularly have breakfast – certainly at away games – with the rest of his team.
Recently, however, his obligatory ham and cheese toastie had been delivered to his room by a member of staff.
On those away trips, it had been known for him not to be visible around the team hotel until noon.
As a result, some players started taking issues they’d usually approach Postecoglou with to other members of the backroom team.
That isn’t to say the players didn’t like Postecoglou. They did.
They found him a refreshing change from the insular and sulky demeanour of Antonio Conte.
The public messages of support for Postecoglou since the final provides evidence that their remains a bond between the group and their manager.
While Postecoglou may have maintained a divide between himself and his players in recent months, his loyalty to his staff cannot be questioned.
Indeed, it was said the biggest concern Postecoglou had about losing his job was his staff. He had been at pains to make sure they would be looked after.
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