Ange Postecoglou praises ‘brave’ Richarlison for opening up on his mental health struggles – and believes the Tottenham forward’s emotional interview can be a ‘conduit for others to reach out for help’

Ange Postecoglou has praised Richarlison after the Tottenham forward bravely opened up about the mental health struggles he suffered following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The Brazilian, who joined Spurs from Everton in 2022 for £60million, revealed in a tearful interview earlier this week that he had suffered from depression after the tournament and had told his father he wanted to ‘give up’.

In September, Richarlison had said he would seek ‘psychological help’ after he was seen crying at the side of the pitch while playing for Brazil.

“We’re all just human, I haven’t spoken to Richy (Richarlison),” Postecoglou said at a press conference ahead of Tottenham’s match against Luton this weekend.

“But Richy has really benefited from the support that is out there, not just for him but for others in the community. Because he has benefited so directly from it, I think he has taken responsibility for trying to share that now.

‘It always has more impact if it is someone who has a higher profile or is in a position where we think he should not have any problems. Or we see it as a sign of weakness when they seek help and support.

‘It’s an honor for him. He obviously could have handled this privately, but I think the public aspect of it is a courageous decision for him, but more importantly, hopefully a channel for others to seek help when they need it.

“Like I said, it’s always a balance in these things, you know where that is Richy or whoever, we all have challenges in our lives and there is help you can get. Hopefully it doesn’t get to the point where it’s so overwhelming that it takes over everything.

“I credit Richy with seeking help, getting the right help and wanting others to benefit.”

Postecoglou also delivered positive news about his team’s fitness and revealed that Micky van de Ven was back in training.

“As for injuries. Micky has been training. He has been training for the past few days. He feels good, so he will be available.

‘Everyone got through the internationals well, which was important for us. Everyone came back on Friday and trained fully.’

On Richarlison’s fitness, he added: ‘He’s doing well. Had a bit of a knee problem and we are managing him. Brazil had him under control, but he trained today and feels good.”

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