'We know what it means' - Mauricio on the derby

Over four years and nine derbies down the line, Mauricio Pochettino is ready to step into a new era in the north London arena at the Emirates on Sunday (2.05pm).

For the first time since joining us in 2014, Mauricio takes on an Arsenal side without Arsene Wenger at the helm. In charge for 22 years, Wenger was replaced by Unai Emery in the summer and the former Valencia, Sevilla and PSG manager is earning praise in his early days at the Gunners.

“This will be different because the manager is different and bringing a different culture, a different mentality and he will provide a different approach,” said Mauricio.

“It will be tough, exciting, just like it was before with Arsene Wenger and now with different ideas under Unai Emery. He’s an experienced manager who has managed in different countries. I’m sure he will show his qualities at Arsenal.”

Mauricio and the players are determined to complete one of the best weeks the Club has seen in recent times with huge victories over Chelsea and Inter in the Champions League already in the bag - what a hat-trick this would be!

“To keep this momentum is so important and to keep the belief that we can beat any team, while at the same time being humble and respecting the opponent,” added Mauricio.

“It will be so tough against Arsenal but with all the respect, we believe we can beat them. First of all, we need to perform how we performed in the last two games.”

Mauricio experienced his first defeat in the Premier League against the Gunners at the Emirates this time last season.

He said: “It’s difficult to accept when you lose a game and against Arsenal, even more.

“We know very well what it means to play against Arsenal. We will try to give our best and our focus is on winning the game. It’s such an important game to keep our position in the table and to put pressure on the top. If the mentality is right and our energy is right, I’m sure we will be close to winning.”

Asked what he’ll be thinking pitchside in that cauldron as the game kicks-off, Mauricio responded: “That’s the time to be quiet, relaxed and to be fresh to see what is going on during the game and try to help the team, as always.”