HE’S GONE FROM OKO OH NO TO A SPURS SISS-LER

MAURICIO POCHETTINO has described Moussa Sissoko as one of Tottenham’s most important players. The Spurs boss has hit back at the “myth” that the former Newcastle midfielder (above) has been a £30million flop. Sissoko has featured in all but one of Tottenham’s 24 Premier League matches this season and in all six Champions League group games. Yet many of Tottenham’s fans remain unconvinced. Pochettino fears Sissoko is still suffering from the unfavourable impression he created during a difficult first season in north London – even though he has since worked hard to improve on it. “We create myths,” said the Spurs boss. “Sometimes first impressions stick forever. But he deserves credit because he is doing very well.” Pochettino’s defence of Sissoko suggests that the France international has won him over following a difficult debut campaign. The 28-year-old started just eight League games last season without scoring and found it impossible to win over the Spurs fans.

The decision to replace Son Heung-min (below), rather than Sissoko, with Erik Lamela during last Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Southampton was booed by sections of the away fans.

Pochettino, however, says the midfielder remains a key figure in terms of the way he wants his Tottenham team to play. “You have to give credit to him because he is the only player who provides balance in those transitions – offensive to defensive, defensive to offensive,” the Argentinian gaffer added.

Pochettino has also dismissed suggestions that he should use the FA Cup simply to blood youngsters rather than field his senior stars.

He explained: “I remember when I was young at the start of my career, I would prepare myself to be a coach and every Tuesday I would write an article on football.

“One day I wrote that playing football is not the same as competing. It’s completely different. You have to be competitive.”