Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has asked his side to expect a tough game against Brighton & Hove Albion on Tuesday evening, as the Seagulls try to secure their Premier League status.
The Lilywhites are coming fresh out of a 3-1 loss against Manchester City, a defeat that saw their lead in fourth spot reduced to seven with five matches remaining to be played this season.
Reflecting closely on their opponents, the Spurs manager said that the work done by Chris Hughton with the team has been exceptional, given the fact that they have been trying to survive after being promoted to the Premier League.
There was also particular mention of Brighton's form against big teams from Pochettino, with the Seagulls even going on to win against Arsenal last month.
"Chris is doing a fantastic job and you know very well I admire him. He is a legend for us. He is a legend for Tottenham and the fans. We all love him", Pochettino said at a press conference.
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"My relationship with him start before I arrived at Tottenham. And of course after Tottenham we empathise better. But yes he is doing a fantastic job.
"He is a great manager and of course Brighton are doing a fantastic season.
"It is not easy to promote and then to fight to stay in the Premier League, but they are doing a fantastic job. And of course it will be tough, a very tough game.
"They were fantastic every time they face big teams. They were capable to beat Arsenal. Yes it is going to be a very tough game for us."
Brighton are currently placed 13th in the league table with 35 points from 33 games, seven points ahead of relegation battlers Southampton.
