Gazzaniga’s impressive performances have been a welcome boost for Pochettino

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The return of the Champions League throws Tottenham’s recent period into sharp context.

Their opening match of the competition, against Inter, saw Spurs on the receiving end of their third straight 2-1 defeat; following reverses against Watford and Liverpool in the Premier League.

That late loss in the San Siro put Spurs on the verge of crisis; arguably the most pressure Mauricio Pochettino has faced in his reign at the club.

On top of that, Pochettino had to contend with a scandal involving his captain, Hugo Lloris. The Frenchman acted irresponsibly in the extreme and was charged with drink-driving.

As he tried to ward off on-pitch crisis, Pochettino had to also deal with off-field controversy; surrounding his captain and first-choice goalkeeper.

Michel Vorm did not deputise ably enough against the Reds; so third choice keeper Pablo Gazzaniga entered the spotlight.

The former Southampton man has done a fine job in the absence of Lloris, forming part of a defence that has ensured wins against Brighton and Huddersfield to ease the pressure.

Much has been said about Spurs’ lack of squad depth, but Gazzaniga has proved to be an unlikely hero for Pochettino.