Former Chelsea midfielder, Michael Hazard has told Tottenham fans they must be welcoming when Mauricio Pochettino returns to the club for the first time since his dismissal in 2019.

Spurs are flying high in the league this season, and currently sit second on the table with 26 points after 10 games. They have played a game less then leaders, Manchester City.

“When I went back, I would like to think I got applause and cheers because the fans respected the job I did for them,” Hazard, who also played for Tottenham, told the PA news agency.

“They also respected I had a job to do because I was at another club and it was no slur on Spurs that I scored two goals. And it almost felt like it was two own goals because Spurs is my team.

“When Pochettino comes back and while the rivalry is that much greater nowadays, I think it is important as a fanbase we rise above it.

“We can show dignity and class by welcoming him back – not giving him a guard of honour as Ange (Postecoglou) says but when his name is read out, to give him a round of applause as acknowledgement and recognition of what he achieved.

“Then we go out and try to win the game and Poch is the enemy then, but ultimately we have to respect the job he did. I for one will certainly give him a round of applause when his name is read out.”

Hazard scored twice for Chelsea upon his return to Tottenham in 1985. The Blues ended up winning the game 3-1.