Tottenham beginning to profit from Pochettino’s youth policy

In his time at the south coast club, the 42-year-old honed the talents of starlets such as England capped Calum Chambers, who challenged Nathaniel Clyne for a starting spot aged just 18, Luke Shaw and James Ward-Prowse.

Seemingly not fancying another stint with a financially-challenged club, Pochettino departed St Mary’s prior to the summer fire-sale, with Spurs stealing in to poach the highly-rated coach.

Transfer policy and recruitment have already evidently evolved under his guidance, in stark contrast to spending splurges over the last few seasons.

Tottenham have so far been keen to introduce, and rely on, youth under their new boss’ instruction. Speaking recently, Pochettino stated: “The young players here are of a similar standard to Southampton’s, only we need to take time to give them the chance…they give the youngsters the possibility to play and that is the difference.”

“We have great talent in the academy. We need to give the vehicle for these young players to arrive in the first team.”

The implementation of these ideas are clearly already underway, with Pochettino relying heavily on younger members of the squad. Whilst not homegrown, the excellent Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela have been key to some of Spurs’ best performances this season, and the side are at their most threatening when these two are in full flow, freely interchanging.

Lamela initially struggled after his Gareth Bale sale funded, big-money move to the Premier League in 2013, but Pochettino looks to have given his compatriot the confidence needed to begin excelling in north London. His recent rabona-style goal is evidence of a young player with his belief back, and fans will be hoping he can finally recapture his previous prolific Roma form.

In addition, much faith has been placed in 20-year-old defender Eric Dier, with Pochettino allowing the England Under-21 star to plug gaps at both centre half and right back.

Spurs’ academy has not been ignored by their new boss, either, with Pochettino affording striker Harry Kane 10 appearances in all competitions. He has been rewarded with seven goals, including a first senior career hat-trick from the 21-year-old, and talk of a full international call-up for England.

Pochettino has also illustrated an eye for a dark horse, with Ryan Mason, already 23, having previously appeared to slip under Tottenham’s radar. After finally being given his Premier League debut, Mason has acquitted himself well, which is testament to his coach’s foresight.

If Spurs stick with Pochettino, his history suggests the Argentine will repay the faith, and potentially save the Londoners a pretty penny in the process.