Mourinho sold Premier League to me, says Pochettino

Jan 18, 2013 6:50:00 PM

The former Espanyol coach insists he can convince the Saints fans he is the right man for the job, and also states that he is "very passionate" about English football

Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho had recommended the Premier League to him as an exciting place to manage.

The former Espanyol coach has taken over the English side on Friday after Nigel Adkins was sacked.

And Pochettino admits he has been impressed by what Southampton have achieved so far, as well as colleague Mourinho's glowing reference of English football.

"They have done really well in the [Premier League]. In Spain we follow it closely. I am a great admirer of English football and am happy to be here," he told reporters.

"I am very passionate about the Premier League. I have seen many games, the Premier League is an attractive league and I have spoken to people at length about it, people such as Jose Mourinho, who is a good friend of mine.

"He told me the best football in the world is being played here."

Pochettino is adamant he can win over his new club's fans after receiving a hostile welcome from Southampton supporters, who believe his swift appointment to be a sign of unfair treatment against their former boss.

He added: "The challenge is to be part of this project, the kindness of the supporters is the biggest challenge I have.

"They are the biggest part of this club and I hope I can convince them with honest and hard work.

"I am very happy to be here in this amazing weather. It happened quickly, small details are not important, it's important I'm here at this project and club."

Meanwhile, Pochettino also eased worries that he may not be up to date with the current Saints' squad, announcing that he has been researching the team for a significant period before joining the club.

He said: "I know about the squad because I've been researching them for several weeks.

"It's not important when I was approached about the job, I'm just very excited to be here."

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