I BACK POCH

Tottenham v Watford Javi’s case for defence

JAVI GRACIA believes defenders do not make great managers.

But with Mauricio Pochettino, Watford’s current boss is willing to make an exception. Gracia (below) is Watford’s 10th manager to work under the Pozzo family since 2012, and he believes the sky is the limit for Pochettino, despite his lack of trophies. The pair clash tomorrow and Gracia knows Pochettino well from when they both played in Spain. “He was tough,” he said.

Gracia, 47, who has managed 10 clubs, including in Greece and Russia, added: “I have always believed defenders don’t become great managers, they usually come from midfield, like myself.

“But Mauricio is something special. I know him from when he played in Spain. I know his backroom staff as well, as I was with Jesus Perez in the same team.

“I think all the coaches that have come to England have done a good job, none more so than Pochettino. He has become a good influence for the rest of the foreign coaches.

“I think seeing his work and how well he has done is very important. The level of Pochettino for me is high. And Tottenham has shown a good level this season and can do it against next season, even though they have not won the Champions League or any other competitions.

“For me Pochettino is one of the best coaches. He is up there with Wenger and Rafa Benitez and has influenced English football.

“A lot of praise must go to Wenger for starting the revolution, then along came others like Rafa to make their mark. What you see in English football now is because of the likes of them. Mauricio is fast becoming just as important.

“It’s hard managing in other countries. In Greece a lot of the people were poor and football was important to them. Russia was totally different, but very enjoyable. “Managing in England is the toughest of the lot because there are so many good teams and you are never allowed to relax. I am enjoying myself here and long may it continue.” Gracia, however, is realistic and knows a run of bad results at Vicarage Road usually means one thing – the exit door. It means he has to keep his best players, with the likes of Richarlison and Abdoulaye Doucoure being very much in demand.

Gracia added: “I prefer they stay with us as they are very good players. I don’t know about their futures but if you ask me what I prefer, that is that they stay with us. I need them so we can try and finish the season on a high.”