The Sport Matrix: Wednesday 28 May 2014

Pochettino signs five-year deal at Tottenham

Mauricio Pochettino was last night appointed as the new manager at Tottenham Hotspur after resigning from his position at Southampton.

The Argentine (right), who had been in charge at St Mary’s for just 16 months, replaces Tim Sherwood, who left White Hart Lane a fortnight ago. Pochettino, 42, impressed in his short spell on the south coast, keeping the club safe from relegation before leading them to an eighth-place finish this time around, equalling their best Premier League position.

He has also attracted plaudits for Southampton’s positive style of play and his championing of young English talent, with a number of his charges tipped for big-money summer moves.

“In Mauricio I believe we have a coach who will embrace the style of play we associate with our Club,” chairman Daniel Levy said. “He has a proven ability to develop each player as an individual, whilst building great team spirit and a winning mentality.”

Tottenham suffered a dip in form towards the end of last season, resulting in Sherwood being shown the door after just five months. MORE

Anderson ready to help out captain

James Anderson says it is up to the players to help out captain Alastair Cook as England face Sri Lanka in the third ODI today. “A captain’s job is difficult,” the bowler said ahead of the Old Trafford meeting. “He needs his senior players around him to share the burden.” MORE

Leader Quintana rides the storm

Nairo Quintana, the Movistar Rider, took the overall lead of the Giro d’Italia yesterday after winning a dramatic 16th stage. Organisers went back on a decision to neutralise the stage during terrible weather conditions, although the message was not relayed to all teams.

Bold Murray and Watson victorious

British duo Andy Murray and Heather Watson both began their French Open campaigns with victory at Roland Garros. Murray beat Andrey Golubev, while Watson overcame Barbora Zahlavova Strycova. There were also surprise exits for Caroline Wozniacki and Li Na. MORE

I’m ready, Suarez tells England

Luis Suarez is confident he will be fit to face England in next month’s World Cup, with the Uruguay forward texting his Liverpool colleagues to say he is hopeful of recovering from his knee injury. The 27-year-old underwent surgery last week and his participation has been in doubt. MORE

Vunipola out, Farrell in for Sarries

Saracens received mixed injury news ahead of Saturday’s Premiership final. Loose-head prop Mako Vunipola (knee) is almost certain to miss the match with Northampton, although Owen Farrell is expected to feature, despite missing training.

Cipriani ready to take his chance

Danny Cipriani is eager to make the most of his unexpected chance on England’s tour of New Zealand. “I want to return from this tour a better player,” the fly-half said. “This is about getting my head down and going for it. I know I’m not first choice.” MORE

Groves: I turn into a serial killer

George Groves says he enters a different mode ahead of a world title fight. “I stop being a human being for the last five weeks,” he said ahead of Saturday’s rematch with Carl Froch. “I’m more like a serial killer. You are preparing for war.” MORE

Jagielka eager to enjoy cup debut

Central defender Phil Jagielka is determined to make the most of his World Cup debut, despite repeated calls for the return of John Terry. “It’s my first World Cup, it could be my last,” the Everton centre-back said. “I’m determined to enjoy it.” MORE

Steve Bunce

Carl Froch and George Groves will make more than any two boxers in a British ring, but had Benn and Eubank met in a rematch after their 1990 brawl, the attendance would have been much higher.