Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou defended Rodrigo Bentancur after the Uruguayan midfielder faced backlash for a controversial comment about his teammate Son Heung-Min.
Bentancur, during a June TV interview in Uruguay, made an offensive remark suggesting that all East Asians look alike, referencing Son.
Recognising the mistake, Bentancur has since apologised, and Postecoglou has urged leniency as the English Football Association considers disciplinary action.
Bentancur could face a suspension if found guilty of violating conduct rules.
South Korea captain Son posted on social media after the incident that he had accepted Bentancur’s apology and the pair remain “brothers.”.
“We need to let the process sort of play out now. Rodri is well aware of the ramifications of any outcome of the panel,” Postecoglou said on Friday at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Arsenal this weekend.
“In terms of Sonny and Rodri, they had their discussions about the whole incident, and both players understand and respect each other’s position.”
Postecoglou added his belief that any sanction must also come with the opportunity for players to learn from their mistakes.
“We try along the way as human beings to do the right thing all the time, but it doesn’t always happen,” added the Australian.
“We all make mistakes. As I’ve said before, for me it is not just about punishment, but it is an opportunity for people to atone and to learn.
“If we’re talking about having a society that is understanding and tolerant of everything, we must also show that to people who make mistakes as Rodri has made in this time.”
Rodrigo Bentancur is set to be available for Sunday’s highly anticipated North London derby.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou also received positive updates on the injury front, with defender Micky Van de Ven and new signing Dominic Solanke expected to rejoin the squad.
Both players had been absent for Spurs’ 2-1 loss to Newcastle before the international break but are now ready to return, boosting Tottenham’s options for the crucial clash against their city rivals.