Pochettino: Spurs stronger for Real Madrid's glances

Mauricio Pochettino has playfully responded to reports of approaches from Real Madrid, believing it will help his current status at Tottenham.

The Argentine manager was quick to play down reports of continued offers following Julen Lopetegui's dismissal, suggesting they don't have as volatile an effect as they would seem, especially with his players.

"It's like our girlfriend or our wife, no?" Pochettino said. "Because we are so handsome and we are walking down the street in London and she is so proud about you because another woman looks at you.

"Your wife is so happy to be with you and feels in love with you. No one looks at you, your wife says 'maybe he is better', understand the metaphor?

"They are confident of course but they are not attached to me only. It is about the club. If I believe that Dele Alli is going to sign or a different player is going to sign a new contract because of me, it is a bad feeling or I am so wrong in my head."

After Alli credited Pochettino's impact as a key factor in signing a new six-year deal with Tottenham this week, the 46-year-old reaffirmed the importance of the club above any individual.

"Of course it is always nice to hear the players say one of the reasons is the manager, one of the reasons is the chairman, one of the reasons is the new stadium, so exciting," Pochettino said.

"One of the reasons I wanted rather to listen – I want to play for Tottenham to make history, to touch the glory with this club and with this badge.

"'Now I am so happy with my manager and I am going to give my best' but there are going to be days we won't be happy because we are human."

Currently in fifth, five points off Premier League-leading Manchester City, Spurs are away to Wolverhampton this Saturday.