Skip to content

Mauricio Pochettino loses cool with Mike Dean after Spurs' defeat at Burnley

Pochettino confronts referee Dean after Spurs lose 2-1 at Turf Moor

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Mauricio Pochettino was less than impressed with referee Mike Dean at the full-time whistle as Tottenham were defeated 2-1 by Burnley at Turf Moor

Mauricio Pochettino squared up to referee Mike Dean in a furious exchange on the pitch after Tottenham's title bid stuttered at Burnley.

The Spurs boss confronted Dean and his officials in the centre-circle at full-time - and it appeared amicable - until something was said towards Pochettino and his staff as they walked away.

Spurs suffer title blow at Burnley
Burnley 2-1 Spurs: As it happened

The Argentinian returned - appearing to repeat "what?" - and fronted up to Dean and his officials, while Pochettino's assistant Jesus Perez could be seen angrily pointing his finger towards Dean's face and appearing to shout "you can't say that!".

Mauricio Pochettino confronted Mike Dean after Tottenham's loss at Burnley
Image: Pochettino confronted Dean on the pitch

All those involved refused to disclose what was said when asked to comment by Sky Sports.

But Pochettino and his staff could face recriminations from the FA with an unhappy Dean to include the incident in his post-match report.

After the incident, the Spurs boss admitted he had made a mistake and would take whatever FA punishment may come his way.

Also See:

He told Sky Sports: "It's so important to understand that it was such an important game for us. I believed before the game it was going to be decisive if we want to be a contender at the end of the season to fight for the Premier League.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Pochettino claimed that the 2-1 defeat to Burnley seriously dents Tottenham's bid to win the Premier League

"But at the end, because of the emotions, everyone was nervous, sometimes we find answers, excuses, and try to justify the defeat.

"It's not how I normally behave, maybe because I knew very well before and after the game, when we lost, that it is going to be difficult to be a real contender.

"I am going to accept everything that can happen from the FA. But what happened on the pitch I hope is not going further."

Harry Kane could not inspire Tottenham to victory at Burnley on his return from injury
Image: Harry Kane returned but could not inspire Tottenham to victory at Burnley

In his post-match press conference, Pochettino expanded: "When you feel so disappointed and upset, maybe sometimes you make mistakes. We made mistakes on the pitch and I made a mistake after.

"I needed to go straight away to my dressing room and wait there, drink some water and be relaxed. But what happened has happened."

Play Super 6
Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win £250K.