Tottenham defender Juan Foyth claims a potential loan move to Championship promotion chasers Leeds never crossed his mind, despite his first-team action being limited in north London.
The 21-year-old joined Spurs from Argentine outfit Estudiantes for £8m in August 2017 after turning down French powerhouse PSG, but he failed to make the impact some thought he would make - earning himself just six appearances in an injury hit debut campaign.
As a result, Foyth was heavily linked with a loan move to Leeds United last summer, where he would have linked up with fellow countryman Marcelo Bielsa at Elland Road. The versatile defender has revealed though in an interview with football.london that he was unaware of the speculation, and was just focused on learning and developing his game.
"I was never told anything about that so I don't know whether it was actually true or not," Foyth explained.
"I have to guide myself on what my agent says. Despite everything I started the season really wanting and looking forward to being here, despite not having a position (in the Champions League squad) and I just wanted to learn day by day."
The form of Belgian duo Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld further limited Foyth's playing time this term and when he eventually made his Premier League debut in Spurs' 3-2 victory at Wolves in November, Foyth conceded two penalties - casting further doubt over his ability to compete at the highest level.
But Foyth bounced back and the following week scored the winner away at Crystal Palace - and the young defender has revealed that his relationship with Pochettino was a factor in his ability to bounce back, in part due to his manager's confidence in his ability.
He added: "I think he (Pochettino) understood, He was a central defender like me, he played in my position and he told me that this is a situation he had been in.
"He always supports us and this gives you confidence you know to go forward and keep working. It's really, really nice."
Source : 90min