Mauricio Pochettino enjoyed his first FA Cup experience on Saturday - and is now eager to lead Southampton into the later stages of the competition.
The Argentinian arrived at St Mary’s a year ago, shortly after Southampton were knocked out of last season’s competition in the Third Round so it has been a long wait for him to get involved in The Cup.
But after leading the Saints past a potential banana skin in Championship high-fliers Burnley at the weekend, Pochettino is now setting his sights high for the remainder of the competition.
Video highlights from St Mary's.
“I know that Southampton have won the trophy once before and have made the Final on other occasions too, so that is something to aspire to for our team this season,” said Pochettino, who saw his team edge through courtesy of a 4-3 victory.
“A good run in this competition will not only lift the competition for places in the squad, but also help generate a winning formula that will help our league form.
“Knockout competitions always throw out some interesting ties and results, and with the right luck as well as desire, you can go a long way in a short space of time so we must grasp the opportunity.”
Southampton were boosted by another home draw against Championship opposition on Sunday, with Yeovil Town heading to St Mary’s in the Fourth Round.
And having tasted success in the Copa del Rey twice as a player during his time with Espanyol in Spain, Pochettino wants The FA Cup to leave lasting memories for his players.
“Our players want to be successful and want to have honours to their names,” he added.
Mauricio Pochettino
Born: 02/03/72, Murphy, Argentina
Clubs: Newell's Old Boys, Espanyol, Paris Saint-Germain, Bordeaux.
Honours: Argentine Primera Division (1991), Torneo Clausura (1992), Copa del Rey (2000 & 2006).
“When I look back on my playing career, I can instantly remember the title successes and there is no greater feeling than knowing you have achieved something as special as winning a cup competition.
“That is the message we will be reinforcing because I want our players to feel that way at the end of their careers too and I’m sure our supporters would also love to experience another successful time in The Cup.”
As an overseas coach, Pochettino admits he feels honoured to be taking charge of a team in The FA Cup.
With images of Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa winning The Cup with Tottenham Hotspur in 1981 still looked back on fondly in Pochettino’s homeland, the South American wants to leave his own mark on the competition.
He said: “I’m very much looking forward to my first taste of The FA Cup this season.
“It is a competition which is talked about all over the world and is one that we want to be successful in, both individually and collectively.”
