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Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino labels Bournemouth’s Artur Boruc a very special player

Artur Boruc, during his time with Southampton (Reuters)
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The Tottenham head coach worked closely with the goalkeeper during their time together at Southampton.

Tottenham manager Mauricio PochettinoTottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino

Ahead of their clash with Bournemouth today, Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has claimed that Cherries goalkeeper Artur Boruc is a very special player before suggesting that he could be difficult to manage, the Daily Mirror reports.

The pair worked together during the Argentinian’s time in charge of Southampton, and it was around the time of Pochettino’s controversial appointment that the Poland international regained his place as the Saints’ first-choice between the sticks.

Artur Boruc, during his time with SouthamptonArtur Boruc, during his time with Southampton

After a successful spell at St Mary’s, the pair both went their separate ways. And before their respective sides face each other this afternoon, Pochettino reflected on his time working alongside Boruc.

“We spent a very nice time together at Southampton, a year-and-a-half, and he is a very special keeper. We still have a very good relationship,” he said, as reported by the Mirror.

Bournemouth's Artur Boruc saves a penalty from Crystal Palace's Yohan CabayeBournemouth’s Artur Boruc saves a penalty from Crystal Palace’s Yohan Cabaye

“I have many stories about him – some good memories, some bad memories.

“The big characters are always difficult to manage and you need to find a way. Every player needs a different approach and it is true that he was different. But 99 per cent of the time we found a way.”

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino during the press conferenceTottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino

Having worked so closely with the 36-year-old, Pochettino will know that his side will have to be somewhere near their best in front of goal if they hope to force him to pick the ball out of his net at any stage.

The former Celtic man is arguably one of the finest shot-stoppers in the division on his day, so it may take something truly special for Tottenham to come away from the Vitality Stadium with the three points.