'Sanchez can become one of the world's best'

The 21-year-old defender arrived from Ajax in a club-record £35m deal in August and has been turning heads ever since.

He was particularly impressive with his recent displays against Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and Pochettino believes he has found a real gem. 

The Spurs boss said: "He's so clever, he's very humble and he's very open to learn.

"He's a player when you tell him something his reaction is to be open and be critical with himself and that is a massive skill from a player.

"When he's so open to improve, then the conditions are amazing to be one of the best centre-halves in the world.

"You saw against Borussia Dortmund how many times he was with Aubameyang one v one. I think not many centre-backs in the world can do this.

"Or against Swansea against Tammy Abraham, how many times he was one v one and the ball was behind him, he was on the halfway line and running was not a problem, and against Cristiano Ronaldo.

"At 21 he showed he is so brave. He takes risks but he is not reckless. I am so happy with him. He's one of the best today but has the potential to get even better."