Thursday 11 August 2016 15:29, UK
Mauricio Pochettino admits he is "very disappointed" Tottenham's head of recruitment Paul Mitchell has chosen to quit the club.
Mitchell was lured to White Hart Lane from Spurs boss Pochettino's former side Southampton in 2014 and arrived with a reputation as one of the game's sharpest spotters of talent.
The 34-year-old will remain in his post until a departure date is agreed but his exit comes as a blow to Spurs, ahead of their season opener against Everton on Saturday and with three weeks still left of the transfer window.
"I feel very disappointed with his decision. It's his personal choice," Pochettino said.
"You know that we have a relationship from Southampton. I'm very disappointed but when someone takes a decision and it's personal, what can I do?
"He's still working with us and we still need to finish the three weeks working together and do the best business for the club."
Tottenham have signed Victor Wanyama and Vincent Janssen already this summer, while other players to arrive under Mitchell's watch include Toby Alderweireld, Son Heung-min, Kevin Wimmer and Kieran Trippier.
"Did I try to persuade Mitchell to stay? I think it's obvious that happened," Pochettino said.
"When you take your choice and personal things happen, there's nothing to do other than respect his decision but carry on working.
"Nothing has changed for the moment, this is most important."
Tottenham moved early to snap up Wanyama and Janssen, who will provide cover for the Mousa Dembele and Harry Kane respectively, but Pochettino is still keen to complete further business this summer.
"Yes, maybe yes. We are open to add one or two players, or maybe no-one," Pochettino said.
"If we have the possibility to sign some players that can improve us, then we are open.
"But I think it's very difficult to find players with this profile because we already have very good players and because of the way we work and our philosophy."
