Book ‘not cause of Spurs slump’
Pochettino denies diary has unsettled players Winks back from illness for game at Watford
Mauricio Pochettino, the Tottenham Hotspur manager, has defended the publication of his book, Brave New World, about life at the club and rejected any suggestion it has had an effect on his team, who have taken only four points from their past five league games.
The Argentine collaborated on a diary of the 2016-17 season, which doubles as an autobiography, divulging private moments with key figures at the club, having previously been guarded about his methods.
Asked to reflect on his candour ahead of the game against Watford tomorrow, Pochettino said he had told the truth about his life and work and did not fear doing so.
The Spurs manager joked that he was glad focus had switched to the book – a remarkable insight into his relationship with players including Eric Dier, Dele Alli and Danny Rose – because it would boost sales ahead of Christmas and he intends to donate his fee to charity.
The book reveals at one point that Dier accepts he should have avoided being drawn into a conversation in Portuguese with Jose Mourinho after the game at Old Trafford last season, especially with him a target for Manchester United. Pochettino describes video sessions with Alli pointing out the player’s mistakes. When Rose is concerned the club are trying to sign Luke Shaw, the full-back is invited to Pochettino’s house to be reassured.
Asked whether he had taken a risk being so open, Pochettino, 45, said: “No. It’s a risk when you lie. If you tell the truth, why? This is a very honest book that was involved with the club for a good thing. I think it’s an amazing book because all of you can read what happens in a season for a professional club. It’s a great opportunity to have a better idea [of life at a club] that’s not only to play football or to come here and tell something to you and speak.”
He added: “The problem is when you lie, when you lie inside and want to be different [in public]. But, for me, I am here how I am inside. And all that appears in this book, the players know better than me. It’s nothing to keep hidden.
“It’s so clear that you have access to different information [in the book]. It’s a lot of good information for everyone. Many players are so happy.
“I think if you read to the end, there appear many players [who write first-person tributes to their manager] and maybe you discover good surprises there. I think my relationship with them is so strong I don’t need to find an excuse about the book.”
Later he was asked whether his publication might herald an era of greater openness among coaches. “I agree with you,” Pochettino said. “Today you can find out what a player, manager or famous person is doing on Twitter or Instagram. You can see and know everything. I don’t have Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. It was a great opportunity to do something different.”
Spurs have Harry Winks back after illness for tomorrow’s game but long-term injury absentees Victor Wanyama and Toby Alderweireld are still out of contention.