Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino claimed Manchester United counterpart Louis van Gaal is “one of the great managers” ahead of their meeting on Sunday.

Van Gaal enjoyed a trophy-laden career before joining United in summer 2014, but his reputation has dipped since taking over from David Moyes at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils crashed out of both the Champions League and Europa League and are struggling to finish in the Premier League top four due to inconsistent performances.

Pochettino, however, was full of admiration for his opposite number.

“I admire Louis van Gaal,” the Argentinian revealed. “He’s a reference from me that I am a young coach. I was a player in Espanyol when he was at Barcelona. Always he has looked to develop young players. I think he’s one of the great managers.”