Tottenham Hotspur drew 1-1 with Arsenal yesterday, and Mauricio Pochettino refuted claims that he copied Chelsea’s tactics.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino took a swipe at Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, insisting that the Italian did not ‘invent’ the 3-4-3 system which has helped get the Blues’ season back on track, as quoted by the Evening Standard.
Tottenham earned a hard-fought point against fierce north London rivals Arsenal yesterday, and remain the only unbeaten side left in England’s top flight after a run of five wins and six draws.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino
The Lilywhites deployed three centre-backs at the Emirates in a bid to counter the Gunners’ attacking threat – a game-plan that worked for the majority of the match.
Pochettino spoke to reporters in the aftermath of yesterday’s game, and explained how tactical variety is the key to his side’s success this season, as quoted by the Evening Standard:
“I cannot say if it is a better way to play in the future but it is important to be flexible. Chelsea, when they played here, started with a back four and after 3-0 in the 60th minute they changed to three. But last season we played against Watford, December 28, with three centre backs. Just because Chelsea won 5-0 yesterday, they didn’t discover the system.”
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino applauds their fans after the match
Despite Tottenham’s undoubted unity and organisation, their fans will be slightly worried by the amount of draws that their team have accumulated already this term – something that has hampered their ability to mount a sustained title challenge in seasons gone by.
Next up for Pochettino’s men is another London derby, at home to West Ham United following the two-week international break.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino
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