Mauricio Pochettino shares half-time and full-time team-talk during Tottenham Hotspur’s match with Chelsea

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Tottenham Hotspur were knocked out of the League Cup by Chelsea last night.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has told Football.London that he was encouraging with his side, even after they were beaten by Chelsea last night.

Tottenham went into the break 2-0 down against Chelsea, but Pochettino was not reading the riot act at half-time.

Instead, the Argentine encouraged his players that their build-up play was working well.

“I told the players in the first half that the way we played from the back in the first half, it was one of the best games that we’ve played,” he said.

“Of course it was tough to arrive in the last third. Until we conceded the first goal I think it was under control but then we conceded the second goal quickly.”

Pochettino switched system at half-time, with Tottenham lining up with three at the back instead.

And the change of shape had the desired impact, as Spurs were much improved after the break.

Fernando Llorente scored an excellent header to put Tottenham level on aggregate, before they were beaten on penalties.

And Pochettino said that he could have asked for little more from his Tottenham players on the night.

“I told the players I feel so proud,” he added. “We have unbelievable players and squad, the effort was brilliant. Everyone saw the performance of the team, and how we play. I can only feel proud and congratulate them.”

Tottenham’s wait for a trophy is now set to continue, but injuries to key players really harmed their chances yesterday evening.

Spurs are next in action at the weekend when they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the FA Cup.