Quote of the day:

Did you go to the team meal, it looked fun?

The reason it was fun was because I wasn’t there.

Summary

  • Team news: Davies still has ankle issue and is touch and go for Chelsea game. Udogie also 50/50 with injury. Everyone else available apart from long-term absentees.

  • Focused on the present and next challenge of Chelsea game, not dreaming about anything further ahead.

  • Next few games against Chelsea, Villa, Man City, Newcastle will be defining but only focused on Chelsea now.

  • Gave players couple of days off after Palace game then intensive training this week to make up for lack of midweek games. Used it to work on things physically, tactically and keep squad fit.

  • Not focused on league table position, just on tackling each challenge and focusing on improving.

  • Pochettino had huge impact at Spurs and his work is unquestioned. Will only be respect from club for him but won’t get guard of honour as we want to win.

  • Styles have similarities in wanting to play progressive, attacking football but more nuance than just saying two managers/teams are alike.

  • Players equally culpable for last season, had to take responsibility and embrace new direction. Changed environment, training, way we do things.

  • Son seemed right choice for captain at the time with Kane leaving. Knew he would embrace it and fill leadership void. Helped rejuvenate him.

  • Lange now in building interacting with people. Important he and Mackenzie joined early before January window. Aims to get business done early in window.

  • Sarr’s versatility to play 6/8/10 a strength currently. Will refine game but provides enormous energy now.

  • Romero been rock in defense, guides others with winner mentality. Van de Ven partnership working well but down to individual quality.

  • All managers have unique challenges outsiders can’t understand. Pochettino will get Chelsea right, has great track record.

  • Success not about unlimited spending. Needs right chemistry and players committed to cause. Wouldn’t want £1bn and 24 best players.

  • Didn’t worry about inheriting Pochettino’s legacy. Focused on what environment needed. Once managers become exes, they’re exes.

  • Attack clicking through players understanding roles more, becoming clearer in approach. More upside but takes time. Goals vs Palace came from training work.