Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has credited assistant Jesus Perez for helping the club to perform strongly during the midway stage of the season.

Spurs have only suffered one defeat in 16 matches in all competitions, with that setback coming away at Manchester City in the Premier League on December 16.

Since then, the North London outfit have moved closer to the top four in the Premier League table, as well as progressing into the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Pochettino has spoken highly of the quality in his first-team squad, but the Argentine has suggested that Perez has also played a leading role behind the scenes.

At a press conference, the 45-year-old told reporters: "One of the reasons is my guidance next to me [points to his assistant Jesus Perez] - he's a genius.

"I think that the team is so strong, the physical condition is so strong, mental and of course in the way that we play is so clear the philosophy and everything always helps the team and the players to perform in the way that we want. Of course the talent of the players is the first thing.

"We have a very good squad, great players and of course now the competition, we increase the competition between them, nearly all are fit, 100%, and will be tough to pick our best starting XI every single game."

Spurs are next in action when they host Arsenal in the North London derby on Saturday afternoon.