Pochettino blasts ‘disrespect’ after Spurs spurn golden chance
A TETCHY Mauricio Pochettino accused journalists of disrespecting his players after Tottenham opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Inter Milan.
Spurs were on course for a win at the San Siro after Christian Eriksen put them ahead, but they capitulated as goals from Mauro Icardi and Matias Vecino in the final eight minutes of gave Inter the points. It was the first time Tottenham have lost three times in a row under Pochettino, who opted to leave World Cup semifinalists Kieran Trippier and Toby Alderweireld at home.
The Argentine was asked whether he regretted not bringing the pair to Milan, which he did not take well.
“Against Watford and against Liverpool, they were on the pitch. Wow, what a question, such an easy question, eh? You know, easy target,” he said.
“[It’s] easy to talk about the players that aren’t here.
“I think we need to talk about football. Because, you know I think you force me to say something that is not good.
“You disrespect the players that today showed better qualities than the opponent.”
After going in front through Eriksen’s deflected effort eight minutes into the second half, Pochettino’s side should have had it wrapped up as Erik Lamela had several opportunities to add to the lead.
And Spurs paid the price as Icardi levelled with a sublime first-time volley from 20 yards before Vecino headed home from a corner deep into injury time.