Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has said he's happy that Southampton have continued their progression since his departure.

Ronald Koeman took the helm after Pochettino's departure, rebuilding a team stripped bare of key players such as Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren, who all went to Liverpool.

Pochettino returns to St Mary's for the first time since being appointed Spurs boss in the summer of 2014 but he said he is not concerned about finishing below his former club.

"When you take that decision or the club take that decision you need to look and move forward," Pochettino said.

"This is a different project and one season of transition. I have a four-year contract left and we try to build a good team and a strong team to try and fight for the top four next season.

"I am happy that Southampton is on the top. I love the people in Southampton and always wish the best."

When asked if Tottenham should expect to finish above Saints, Pochettino asked for careful consideration of the finances involved.

"Southampton spent a lot of money and signed very good players," he said. "The investment was nearly £80m. It's a massive difference with us this season."

Pochettino also reflected on his arrival at St Mary's and what he feels he left behind at the club. "It was tough because when we arrived at Southampton, the people loved Nigel Adkins and it was difficult," he said. "It wasn't my fault to arrive at Southampton because the president offered the job.

"We changed a lot of things and we did a fantastic job because the players were fantastic, the philosophy of the club was very good."

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