Former manager Pochettino poised for hot reception as soaring Saints continue to defy doubters

Mauricio Pochettino still loves Southampton but knows that affection is unlikely to be reciprocated when his former side arrive at Tottenham this weekend.

Eyebrows were raised when the former Argentina defender replaced the popular Nigel Adkins at the St Mary’s helm in January 2013, yet the relative unknown quickly established himself as one of the finest managerial talents around.

Pochettino’s attacking, high-pressing style earned widespread praise, as did the manner in which English talent like Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw and Jay Rodriguez flourished under his tutorship.