Erik Lamela hails manager Mauricio Pochettino's impact at Tottenham

By Zinny Boswell

Image: Erik Lamela insists Pochettino key to Spurs success

Tottenham winger Erik Lamela has put his side's title push firmly down to the tactics and spirit of manager Mauricio Pochettino.

The Argentinian, who took over at White Hart Lane in May 2014, led them to fifth in the table last season and this campaign has guided them to second, two points behind Leicester, with 11 matches of the campaign remaining.

Ahead of Wednesday's trip to London rivals West Ham, compatriot Lamela, who joined from Roma at the start of the 2013/14 season, said: "Above all he is a good trainer but it is also good to have someone from your country who can talk to you in your language or be nearby when you need something.

"We are all very happy, me and my team mates, with the work we're doing and we hope the season ends in the best possible way."

Lamela has also praised Pochettino's use of squad rotation which has allowed his young side to cope with a hectic fixture list, including reaching the last 16 of the Europa League where they take on Borussia Dortmund next week.

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Image: Lamela (right) happy to be part of Pochettino's 'rotation'

"He has found his team as they say. The important thing in this squad is that whoever plays he's managing the rotation very well," he added.

"We hardly ever repeat the same team and that's good. It means we're not just 11 players but a whole squad. Our practices are hard and that also helps the team to give their utmost.

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"There are lots of matches and there are important ones coming up, West Ham, then the derby with Arsenal. They're all tough so the best thing is to take it match by match.

"We have the same mentality in the Europa League. We trust in our chances and in our game. We have a great team."

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