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Lloris: Pochettino the main reason I'm at Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur FC / Getty

Mauricio Pochettino's "strong" relationship with Hugo Lloris convinced the French shot-stopper to remain at Tottenham.

"The main reason is Mauricio Pochettino," Lloris told ESPN FC's Dan Kilpatrick. "That's the truth and I cannot hide that."

Lloris signed a new contract in December that ties him to Spurs until 2022 - the biggest indication yet of his commitment to the north London outfit.

But Pochettino's presence and overall view on football made the decision to stay an easy one.

"The only thing that I know is that I enjoy my time at Tottenham and especially under Mauricio Pochettino," Lloris said. "I believe that with him the club can reach the level we all want."

The Argentine manager has turned the club into a Premier League title contender, cultivating a core of young English players while demanding tireless running and high-octane pressing. Like last season, Spurs still own the top flight's best goal differential (plus-46), and no other goalkeeper in the division can boast more than Lloris' 13 clean sheets.

(Photo courtesy: Action Images)

It is no coincidence, either, that 10 senior players have pledged their long-term future to the club this season. Lloris signed his name along the dotted lines as teammates Harry Kane, Danny Rose, Christian Eriksen, and Dele Alli did earlier in the campaign.

"He has created something very special inside this building (Hotspur Way) because I can tell you that the club we are at the moment is not the same as it was before he signed (in 2014)," the Frenchman said.

It's not the first time Lloris has devoted himself to Pochettino. Back in March, the 30-year-old said his future "lies with Mauricio," an apparent warning shot to any interested parties that they are a package deal.

Both have been linked with moves abroad, but both appear determined to turn Tottenham into a "big institution."

Lloris added, "A winning mentality is already in this team - we just need some chances and opportunities, and we have a few before the end of the season. When you have a chance, you have to take it."

A first FA Cup final in 26 years beckons if Spurs can get past Chelsea on Saturday.

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