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Fernandes insisted after the game it was “never a red”, saying it was a foul but not a dismissal, but Postecoglou refused to wade into the debate over whether it was a fair sending off – instead choosing to focus on how it came after Spurs put United under “enormous” pressure.

“I think it was a consequence of how we were going in the game,” he said. “Just putting enormous pressure on them. The amount of chances that we were creating, we weren’t letting them get out of their half. It was a strong all-round performance.”

The Australian coach admitted his side should have scored a few more than they did but praised his players for their quick start and controlling the game after United went down to ten men.

“I thought it was an outstanding performance,” he added. “Started the game really well, scored a great goal, should have had two or three and been away. They get a red card and we control the game really well. Just an outstanding effort from the lads.

Fernandes was adamant it wasn’t a red, telling the media after the game: “I agree that it is a foul but it is never a [sending off]. The referee tried to tell me that as he saw it was a clear contact with the studs, no. I didn’t touch him with the studs or even the foot, it was my ankle. It is a clear foul.”