Spurs v Brighton - Mauricio's preview

Mauricio Pochettino described the players as ‘focused and determined’ ahead of tonight’s Premier League encounter against Brighton.

We were handed an intriguing Champions League draw against Juventus on Monday and travel to all-conquering Manchester City on Saturday but the players have tunnel vision for the latest in a run of Premier League fixtures over the festive period.

Spurs v Brighton - tickets on general sale

“The players are so focused and determined to build good momentum,” said Mauricio. “We need to win games in the Premier League to try to be close to the top four.

“It’s an important game now against Brighton, a key game to try to get the three points and stay close to the top four.

“The feeling (in the squad) is good after a few games where we couldn’t feel the victory in the Premier League. Now we’re so focused on the Premier League and only the Premier League, try to win games, perform in a good way and try to fight for the top four.

“First of all we need to play and perform how we need to perform. The team is so motivated.”

Standing in our way, Brighton. Managed by Spurs legend Chris Hughton, who made 398 appearances for us between 1979-90 and was a coach at the Club between 1993-2007, the Seagulls made an impressive start to their first Premier League campaign but travel to Wembley on a run of five without a win.

It’s our first league meeting since a clash in the old Division One back in 1983 although we’ve played in the FA Cup (2005) and League Cup (2014) since then.

“They are doing very well from the beginning of the season, they have good players, a great philosophy and a fantastic manager,” added Mauricio. “They also have the motivation to play at Wembley and it will be tough. All games are over this period.

“We know Chris well. All the Tottenham fans love Chris, not only as a manager but as a person. It will be fantastic to see him.”

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