Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Tottenham have the best manager in the Premier League, according to local MP and Spurs fan David Lammy.
Mauricio Pochettino has reinvigorated White Hart Lane since arriving from Southampton at the start of last season, swiftly creating a youthful, energetic squad typified by young English talent such as Dele Alli, Eric Dier and Harry Kane.
A season that was expected to be defined by consolidation has seen Tottenham emerge as surprise title contenders and they currently lead local rivals Arsenal on goal difference. Pochettino’s men lie second, five points off league leaders Leicester, and have an opportunity to further enhance their title credentials away to Manchester City on Sunday.
Tottenham’s fine form this season appears to have caught the eye of a leading voice at Old Trafford.
“I’m going to let you into a secret,” Lammy said on The Spurs Show. “About six weeks ago, I sat next to Sir Alex Ferguson at a dinner in support of grassroots football abroad.
“He said to me, ‘I think you guys have got the best manager in the Premier League.’ Alex Ferguson said that.”
The regard in which Ferguson reportedly holds Pochettino may be of concern to Tottenham fans, as their manager has emerged as a long term target for both United and Chelsea.
Both clubs are likely to be searching for a new manager in the summer, though Jose Mourinho is confident that he will land the job at Old Trafford with Louis van Gaal widely expected to depart.
However Pochettino’s burgeoning reputation for developing young players, having blooded the likes of Alli, Tom Carroll, Nabil Bentaleb and Joshua Onomah, may appeal to many in Manchester, particularly Ferguson.
Replicating Tottenham’s stylish, attacking football at United may also placate fans who have grown increasingly frustrated by the possession- oriented displays by Van Gaal’s side in recent months.
Tottenham, though, remain relaxed and confident that Pochettino is committed to the club for the long term.
COMMENTS