Postecoglou wins award as London's top soccer manager

The 58-year-old Australian was a reluctant recipient of the award on Thursday night, but did enjoy the evening at Camden Roundhouse where Spurs stopper Guglielmo Vicario claimed the goalkeeper of the year title.

"I said last night that it's a bit weird. It's only February, just into March, and I'm not really sure where that fits in terms of recognition," Postecoglou admitted on Friday.

"Having said that, it is an acknowledgement of the work we've done since the start of the season, on the back of a disappointing year last year, so I guess we as group made an impact.

"I'm still a bit of a fan with these events, bumped into a few legends, so it was still a nice night.

"I just know we have a long way to go with the football we want to play."

But Postecoglou has been dealt a fresh injury blow with star striker Richarlison ruled out for up to four weeks with a knee injury.

The Australian has been without several players this season for prolonged periods, but appeared to have an almost fully-fit squad to pick from when Pape Sarr, Yves Bissouma and Son Heung-min returned from international duty last month.

But Richarlison sustained a knee issue in the 2-1 defeat to Wolves a fortnight ago, while Pedro Porro (muscle) remains out, joining Fraser Forster (ankle), Ryan Sessegnon (hamstring) and Manor Solomon (knee) on the treatment table ahead of Saturday's visit of Crystal Palace.

"Destiny (Udogie) has trained but Pedro is probably another week away," Postecoglou revealed.

"We do have a couple of other injuries. Richarlison is out for three to four weeks. He picked up a knee injury in the last game so he will be out for a little while.

"Richy is disappointed because he's been a key contributor but, again, it is kind of how our season has gone. We get one back and lose another."

Australian Associated Press