Top spot in the Premier League is the motivation for Tottenham against Bournemouth, says Mauricio Pochettino
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has urged his team to take their chance to go top of the Premier League for the first time in more than two years when they meet Bournemouth on Saturday.
Spurs visit the in-form Cherries, who thrashed Hull 6-1 last weekend, for a lunchtime kick-off that could see them overtake leaders Manchester City and rivals Arsenal, at least for a few hours.
Pochettino’s men did not reach the summit last term despite challenging for their first top-flight title since 1961. They last went top after two games of the 2014-15 season.
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“It’s a big motivation for us to finish the game and take the three points to be top of the table. Better motivation is impossible,” he said.
“Today the motivation was very good on the training ground. Our players are very conscious about that and it’s a good opportunity to see us at the top of the table. First of all we need to win the game.
“In front we have a very good team and a great manager like Eddie Howe. It will be a very tough game.”
Pochettino is without defender Toby Alderweireld, injured in last week’s 1-1 draw at West Brom, and striker Harry Kane, who is close to a return. Left-back Danny Rose is a doubt.