House of the rising SON

TOTTENHAM seem to be timing their run to perfection. This year the rewards are not as meaningful with the title out of sight, but ensuring Champions League qualification is vital.

It means more revenue and a better chance to keep Harry Kane and Dele Alli. Pochettino will be encouraged by his side’s run of one defeat in 11 games — this 4-0 win just the latest triumph.

‘Every day you learn in football. This is a different season and a different circumstance,’ he said. ‘Everything is different, but you try to learn and relate it to the team. I’m so proud of the way we are playing.’

This victory provided further proof that Spurs will last the distance in this race. Kane scored, inevitably, taking his top-flight tally to 98 — and overtaking Teddy Sheringham to become the club’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer. The accolades keep coming. Pochettino understands but is adamant there is more to this team.

‘It’s normal if Kane, Alli, Eriksen or Son get credit,’ he said. ‘It’s always the offensive players that take more credit. But there’s Hugo Lloris, Jan Vertonghen, Davinson Sanchez, Mousa Dembele, Eric Dier, Ben Davies — they deserve credit too.

Son’s goal against Everton was his 11th of the season. Kane’s brilliance has overshadowed the Korean’s emergence as a vital cog in Pochettino’s plans but he is more than happy to play second fiddle.

‘It doesn’t frustrate me at all, we are team-mates,’ Son insisted. ‘I really enjoy Harry scoring goals as it makes my team-mates happy.

‘He beats every record and we are part of this. I am happy to help him. It is not just me helping Harry. We have quality players. If we get the ball and need to take care of the ball, it is not just about Harry, me or Dele.’