Rose a thorn in Swansea’s side

MAURICIO Pochettino says Danny Rose was the firstplayer he called when he arrived at Tottenham and is delighted the full back is now repaying his faith.

Rose scored the winner as Pochettino’s side came from behind to beat Swansea 2-1 atWhite HartLane, a victory that reduces the gap between Spurs and league leaders Leicester to two points.

For a long time, it looked like Swansea would pull off a surprise win in north London as Alberto Paloschi gave the visitors an early lead and then Lukasz Fabianski frustrated Tottenham with a number of excellentsaves.

Substitute Nacer Chadli, however, equalised in the 70th minute and seven minutes later, Rose drove a loose ball home to keep his team’s title charge on track.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed an impressive season under Pochettino buthis Spurs future was far from certain when the Argentinian arrived, after the new head coach made fellow leftback Ben Davies one of his first signings.

“We arrived 21 months ago and the firstmeeting I had with a Tottenham player was with him,” Pochettino said.

“I was happy and pleased to give him the opportunity to stay here and work with us.

“Itis true we are very happy with him showing quality and helping the team.”

Defeatleaves Swansea 16 th, three points above the relegation zone, ahead of Wednesday’s game atArsenal.