Mauricio Pochettino has labelled his Tottenham colleague Toni Jimenez “the best goalkeeping coach in the world”.
Jimenez was a teammate of Pochettino’s during the pair’s playing days at Espanyol and –alongside assistant manager Jesus Perez and first team coach Miguel D’Agostino – they have worked together since then at Espanyol, Southampton and Spurs.
With Hugo Lloris and Michel Vorm currently injured, third choice goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga stepped in for Saturday’s 2-1 win at Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League, and Jimenez has been praised for preparing his countryman in the correct way.
Talking to the club’s official website, Pochettino spoke of his admiration for the work Jimenez does with Tottenham’s goalkeepers.
“For me, he’s the best goalkeeping coach in the world. His mentality, his passion… I’ve not seen with other people. I’m so lucky to have him next to me,” Pochettino said.
“His energy is amazing and the way he works deserves to be praised, providing all his experience, knowledge and commitment to the team, the club, the players.
“He’s a crazy guy with that passion, clever… of course there are other excellent goalkeeping coaches but for me, he’s the best.”
It isn’t only Pochettino who appreciates everything Jimenez does. Lloris has also heaped praise on the goalkeeping coach.
“I’m enjoying every day in my work with Toni,” said Lloris. “I’m still learning a lot from him. He helped me to become a modern goalkeeper.”
Michel Vorm said: “He’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever worked with. I came to the club when I was 30 and I’m still learning and becoming a better goalkeeper, and that’s thanks to him.”
Gazzaniga is also appreciative of Jimenez, adding: “He’s is doing a great job and not just with me but with all the young lads and of course Hugo and Mich as well. This is a big merit for Toni.”
Gazzaniga will remain between the sticks for Tottenham’s EFL Cup clash with Watford in Milton Keynes on Wednesday night, but Lloris could return for Saturday’s trip to Huddersfield Town.