Eddie Howe: Mauricio Pochettino among “the very best” Premier League managers

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe and Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino are friends, so it’s no surprise that the two are saying nice things about each other ahead of this weekend’s Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium. Howe, in particular, was very complimentary of Pochettino in a recent press conference, calling Spurs title contenders.

"It's going to be a real test for us. They have an outstanding manager who in my opinion is up there with the very best. The intensity at which his sides play makes them difficult opponents. They are genuine title contenders.

"Tottenham haven't been beaten or conceded a goal from open play in the league this season, so they're certainly in good form. For me, last season they, along with Manchester City, were the strongest side we faced.

"We had two very tough games against Spurs last season, but we've definitely learnt from those experiences. I think we're better prepared for these kind of games. We're more hardened to Premier League football and our belief and confidence levels are better than what they previously were, but we have to prove it on the pitch."

Pochettino in turn told reporters that he doesn’t think Howe is too young for the vacant England job.

"Never it is too soon, if you want it. One day if it's in his mind to be manager of the national team and he has the offer it will be great for England. I like him a lot but that's a question for him. Every manager has his ideas but he is great. All I saw from him is fantastic. I can repeat I like him a lot."

This relationship isn’t exactly Wenger vs. Mourinho, is it? They’re total bros.

Bournemouth aren’t pushovers: they’ve won their last three matches at home in the Premier League including a 6-1 pounding of Hull City last weekend. While past teams have attempted to pack men in the box and take the air out of the ball in order to get a result from Tottenham, Bournemouth, to their credit look like they’re going to try and play with Spurs. Which will be fun! But could end up with them learning a couple more lessons about Tottenham Hotspur.