Friday 27 November 2015 07:36, UK
Mauricio Pochettino says Harry Kane's future is at Tottenham after watching the England forward fire his side into the knockout stages of the Europa League.
The 22-year-old has rediscovered his goalscoring touch in recent weeks after a slow start to the season and netted his ninth goal in six matches in the 1-0 victory over Group J minnows Qarabag in Baku on Thursday.
According to widespread newspaper reports, Chelsea and Manchester United are interested in signing the in-form Spurs frontman, who only penned a new five-and-a-half year contract to remain at White Hart Lane in February.
However, Pochettino insists Kane wants to remain at Tottenham and feels links with England's "big clubs" are only a reflection of his superb form.
"I am happy that a big club want our players - this is because they show they are a top player with top performances. It is good when they are linked," the Tottenham manager said.
"But Harry, like Hugo Lloris, wants to stay here. He is one of the best players and he is very happy. He wants to grow up with us and try the next few years to try for the top four and win titles with Tottenham. This is his challenge."
Pochettino sprang a surprise by picking Kane in a strong starting line-up against Qarabag, despite facing Chelsea less than 72 hours later.
But the move paid off as Kane nodded in the winner to ensure Tottenham's longest-ever journey for a competitive fixture - a 5,000-mile round trip to the capital of Azerbaijan - proved worthwhile as they made the last-32 with a match to spare.
"We are through to the next round and this was our objective," Pochettino added.
"The objective is gone now. We will make sure we will arrive in a good condition to play Chelsea. We have a strong squad and a strong mentality, with the maturity.
"It is true we arrive maybe not in the best condition to compete in the right way but respect to our medical staff for what they do, they will work during the flight and tomorrow we have a day off. On Saturday, we will assess."
