Newcastle vs Spurs: Pochettino previews upcoming clash
Tottenham have garnered the reputation of having a weak mentality over the years for their shortcomings on the brink of glory.
Pochettino has gone a long way to change that perception, with the club sustaining its spot in the top four after only qualifying for the Champions League once in the pre-Pochettino era.
Spurs looked destined for a period of hardship when they were trailing Watford 1-0 at home with 10 minutes remaining on Wednesday, but managed to mount a comeback victory.
The mentality today is so strong and we're so happy to have that and created that
Mauricio Pochettino
Although still without talismans Harry Kane and Dele Alli due to injury, Pochettino explained to Sky Sports the positive mood amid the group at the moment.
"The mentality today is so strong and we're so happy to have that and created that," he said.
"I think it was an amazing victory over Watford because, 10 minutes until the end, we created the possibility to turn the result.
“I think it was well deserved but I think maybe it's true the people can think 'without [injured] Harry Kane it is going to be difficult'.
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has hit back at critics (Image: Getty)
Tottenham lost 2-0 against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup fourth round (Image: Getty)
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“But [they should] talk very highly about the mentality and the quality of the squad.
"For me football is about collective skills. You can miss some players but in the end you need everyone. And it's so important to keep the mentality [strong] with everyone."
Tottenham face Newcastle on Saturday in the early kick-off and once again will be vying to not only bag three points but do it stylishly.
But that entertaining, high-pressure style under Pochettino does not deserve enough credit, believes the 46-year-old.
Harry Kane replacement Fernando Llorente bagged the late winner against Watford on Wednesday (Image: Getty)