Mauricio Pochettino arrival could revive career of lost Manchester United star

At almost every club he has been at, Mauricio Pochettino has been a hit with the playing squad. Even at his former club Paris Saint-Germain, most of the dressing room welcomed his demeanour.

After all, this is a man who played at a World Cup and plied his trade in three of the top five European leagues during his career. It’s why the likes of Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, Xavi and Luis Enrique have a dressing room head start on the likes of Unai Emery, Arne Slot - and Erik ten Hag.

All latter three had professional careers but not of the heights that Pochettino managed. The reaction of Chelsea players upon learning of his exit this week speaks volumes.

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The main aim of a manager is to win matches but being likeable within the squad is an essential part of reaching the summit in the modern game, be it against the grain of old-school tradition or not.

Nowadays, there are more players who need an arm around the shoulder than the hairdryer treatment, albeit the latter should never be disregarded for the right moment.

Pochettino’s handling of the penalty fracas between Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson in the 6-0 thrashing of Everton also showed which side of the coin he is on.

One Manchester United player who could do with morale soothing is Mason Mount. The midfielder arrived for an initial £55m last summer and has played only 19 times, of which just eight have been starts.

Four separate injuries this season have seen him sit out 31 matches, and it is uncertain whether he will be available for the FA Cup