Ange Postecoglou has bristled at a question by an English journalist suggesting his sliding Tottenham can not win the Premier League this season.

In a frosty press conference before his team’s clash with London rivals Brentford on Thursday morning (AWST), Postecoglou was asked if finishing in the top-four and qualifying for next season’s Champions League was now his team’s goal as they battle injuries and departures.

The reporter pointed to Postecoglou’s success both managing in Japan and at Scottish giants Celtic before saying Spurs “probably” won’t win the league this year.

Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City and Aston Villa all sit clear of Tottenham as the Premier League ramps up again after its winter break.

“I know in your career it is rare you go a season without winning a trophy, which will probably happen this year, but is top-four now for you, success,” he was asked.

Postecoglou — famous in the league for his interactions during press conferences — queried back: “so we can’t win the league?”.

“That’s what you’re saying. You did. Probably,” he told the reporter.

“That’s OK, you’re allowed to say that, don’t worry about it.

“Don’t worry, you don’t think we’re going to win the league. Be strong on that it’s alright.

The Aussie boss finished the exchange with a smile on his face before answering the question in earnest.

“I understand that, I get the question,” he said.

“It’s disappointing that we are out of both cup competitions, particularly with not being in Europe.

“Supporters are really crying out for some sort of success for them to celebrate at this football club, but as I said, I can’t let that guide my course and this year is still about us growing as a team, finishing the second half of the year stronger than we did the first.

“If we do that, then we will be in a good position I think to challenge and push this team along.”

Postecoglou earlier this week shirked a question around Jurgen Klopp’s bombshell departure from Liverpool.

He has been linked to what will be the most prized job in English football when the German leaves at the end of this season, along with former Red Xabi Alonso and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi.

“Yeah look, probably not the time to ask me about it, to be honest,” Postecoglou said.