Pochettino honoured by Simeone comparisons

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While putting off the possibility of taking the Argentina job, Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino hailed compatriot Diego Simeone.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino says he is honoured to be compared to "one of the best in the world" in Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone.

With both sides conducting part of their pre-season programme in Australia, the two former Argentina team-mates will go head-to-head in International Champions Cup action on Friday.

And Pochettino was glowing in his praise of Simeone as he spoke to the media ahead of the game in Melbourne, citing his achievements with Atleti as he ranked the 46-year-old among the world's elite.

"If you compare me to Diego Simeone, that's a big prize, because I consider him one of the best in the world," the Spurs boss said.

"He deserves all the credit because obviously it's difficult to take a team like Atletico Madrid and play finals - the Champions League final - and to win the league in Spain."

"One day, like me, I'm sure Diego hopes to manage Argentina, but not now," he added.