TOUGH AT THE TOP

MAURICIO POCHETTINO believes taking the next step will be the toughest challenge for Tottenham.

The Argentinian arrived at White Hart Lane in the summer of 2014 aiming to close the gap to the top sides.

They battled with Leicester for the title two years later but fell short as Claudio Ranieri’s men stunned the football world by sealing the crown.

But now Pochettino is ready to push leaders Liverpool and champions Manchester City in the race to the top of the Premier League in the second half of the season.

The Spurs boss said: “We have created together a massive platform that today Tottenham is enjoying.

“Because the players are enjoying that platform, the fans are enjoying, we are enjoying it.

“Four and a half years ago, I think it was a difficult start for everyone.

“I remember when we arrived in every single press conference in the first six months, it always was about, ‘How?’

“How can we reduce the gap of the top? How can we reduce the top four gap? How can we be competitive in the big games? How can we be consistent? How? How? How? How? It was always many questions.

“Now I think we’re in a very good position. But the last step is the most difficult step. It looks so close but sometimes it’s not so close.

“That is why it’s tough to keep going. We have the energy and we’ll try.” While his future might become uncertain if Manchester United move for him in the summer, Pochettino is hoping Christian Eriksen will extend his contract beyond 2020.

The Dane is set to face Bournemouth today and Pochettino added: “I hope he can take the best decision for himself and for his future, and the club.”