Ange praises Poch's 'undeniable' Spurs impact ahead of reunion

Ange Postecoglou has praised Mauricio Pochettino's "undeniable" impact on Tottenham as the Chelsea boss prepares to return to his old club on Monday night.

Pochettino took charge of Spurs for over five seasons between 2014 and 2019, guiding them to second place in the Premier League and into a Champions League final.

And their current boss insists the Argentine's work remains respected in North London, even though he seems set to receive a hostile reception at the Tottenham Hostpur Stadium.

Postecoglou said: "It is undoubted that he had an unbelievable impact on this football club.

"He almost took the club to the ultimate summit of the Champions League, got close to the league, so his work is unquestioned.

"I doubt there will be anything but respect for Mauricio from anyone at this football club, supporters or people associated but it doesn't mean he will get a guard of honour on Monday night because we want to win.

"I don't think he would expect that but his tenure here and impact here is undeniable and will stand the test of time."

Postecoglou's start to life at Spurs has been smoother than Pochettino's at Chelsea, with the latter picking up just 12 points from 10 games and sitting 11th in the Premier League table.

Tottenham are top of the league with eight wins and two draws but their boss insists that it is a matter of time until the Blues are also on the up.

He added: "What I know is you don't really know what challenges exist until you're in it.

"What I have to deal with and what Mauricio has to deal with are probably very, very different but in essence what we are trying to do is the same thing. Build a team that we believe can bring success.

"You look at Mauricio's track record and I've got no doubt he'll get Chelsea on the right path."