'I say sorry'- Mauricio Pochettino forced to apologise before making brilliant Erik ten Hag admission

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino said his players deserved more praise for their resilience, character and determination to hold on and win despite playing 60 minutes a man down against Brighton. 

The Blues responded brilliantly to their 4-1 defeat at Newcastle with a win and they travel to Manchester United tomorrow night looking to go on a run. 

Asked what he thought of the character of his team against the Seagulls, he said: "It was good for us when you analyse the game you feel proud. The way we started the first half against a very good team like Brighton, after our situation tried to change our feelings after Newcastle. It was a really tough game for us, not only because it was Brighton, but because it was us trying to show a different face.

"I think I was tired after the game and in the press conference I think I didn't understand a little bit, the questions. I say sorry. I was tired after the interview because I think the players deserved more credit. To play more than 60 minutes with one less against a really good team and we didn't concede too much and to score with one player less was great for our players and for the team to believe. 

"These areas we need to build and feel very comfortable and can fight together and show character and togetherness. That is so important. Before talking about tactics, philosophy or methodology it's about being all together, the desire, to belong to the club, and this group of players fighting together. If we feel like this after we can evolve and develop in any way to play." 

The Chelsea boss was also asked what he thought of Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag who he beat when he was Tottenham manager to reach the final of the Champions League in 2019. 

Pochettino added: "Fantastic coach, I remember when I was at Tottenham we had semi-finals of the Champions League against Ajax. I think everyone was talking about Ajax or him. For me, he is a fantastic coach and manager. 

"I think it is good to see him after four years because after the semi-final we have not had the pleasure again. We were in Paris and never had the coincidence to play in Champions League and now is the possibility to see him again."