Football news - Mauricio Pochettino: Trophies are only good for building your ego

ByTom Adams

Updated 27/01/2019 at 20:24 GMT

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said trophies are only good for "building your ego" as his side were knocked out of a second cup competition in the space of four days.

After losing on penalties to Chelsea in the Carabao Cup on Thursday night, a miserable fortnight for injury-hit Spurs continued on Sunday when they lost 2-0 away at Crystal Palace in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Given Tottenham will have to face Borussia Dortmund in the last-16 of the Champions League without Harry Kane or Dele Alli due to fitness problems, Spurs' hopes of winning a trophy this season have receded dramatically.

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The club have not won one since the League Cup in 2008 and Pochettino is once again having to face questions over how much progress Spurs have really made without the validation of silverware.

But the Argentine said trophies were not a priority - citing instead the need to finish in the top four.

Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace celebrates with teammates

Image credit: Getty Images

"It was a fair result. They scored and we didn't... we can talk about possession and shots but if you don't score you don't deserve to win games," Pochettino said.

"We came from a crazy fixture schedule and we were forced to make some changes. This season is tough and it's going to be a massive challenge for us... we're out of two competitions since Wednesday and we're disappointed.

"Again we're going to have the debate whether a trophy will take the club to the next level. I don't agree with it. It only builds your ego. The most important thing for Tottenham now is to always be in the top four."

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