Newcastle United: Andros Townsend reveals he had no personal issues with Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino

Andros Townsend has revealed his Tottenham Hotspur exit was down to Mauricio Pochettino's professional decision and ruled out any issues on a personal level with his former manager. The winger admitted he does not agree with the Argentine coach's decision to sanction his sale, which saw him leave White Hart Lane and make a switch to Newcastle United on 27 January.

The England international has not played a full 90 minutes in the last two years and was made to feature regularly for Tottenham's Under-21s this season. Lack of playing time under the former Southampton manager saw him leave his boyhood club and make a switch to the Tyneside club.

"He (Pochettino) has had no problem with me on a personal level. He made his decision professionally, which obviously I do not agree with, but Tottenham are flying high, so I can't really argue with him," Townsend said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

Tottenham have made their way into the top four of the Premier League table under Pochettino's guidance this term. Newcastle are sitting in 18<sup>th spot with 21 points, two points behind Norwich City, who are 17<sup>th in the table.

After completing a £12m ($17.2m) deal to St James' Park, Townsend revealed he envisaged finishing his career at White Hart Lane. However, he wants to put the disappointment behind him and regain his earlier form, where the winger was dubbed as one of the best prospects for England.

"Of course, £12m is a lot of money. But if I can reach my potential and play to the ability I know I have, then I am sure as quickly as people are saying it is a lot of money, they will be saying it is a bargain," the winger explained.

"I am the same player and the same person that broke on the scene a few years ago and was tipped as a big England prospect. I was an integral part for club and country. But I have got a point to prove now, haven't I? I have not played consistently in a long time."

"The last time I played nine or 10 Premier League games in a row, I was playing for Spurs, playing for England and kind of setting the world alight, so I can't wait to get a run of games and hopefully get back to that level I was at a few years ago."

Steve McClaren has splashed the cash since he took the job at Newcastle. According to the Daily Mail, he has taken the club spending to £80m ($114.9m) and the ex-England coach will be hoping Townsend's arrival can lift the mood in the camp in order to help the Magpies avoid relegation this season.