Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has praised his players for picking up an "important win" against Southampton this afternoon.

Christian Eriksen's strike shortly before half time proved the difference between the two sides at White Hart Lane, as Pochettino picked up all three points against his former club.

The victory lifts the North London outfit up to sixth place in the Premier League table following a relatively slow start to their campaign.

"It is an important win. It was a very tough game," the 42-year-old told BBC Sport. "We are still improving. I arrived three months ago and it is always difficult to put together a different philosophy in such a short time.

"It is important to build something for the long term. All the players did a great job today and did their best. We deserved the three points."

The Spurs boss also reserved a special mention for his former suitors, adding: "I love Southampton and the club. Southampton will always be special for me in my heart; they have some unbelievable players."

Tottenham take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium upon the conclusion of the two-week international break.