Mauricio Pochettino has defended the form of Moussa Sissoko and insists that midfielder is deserving of far more praise from Tottenham Hotspur supporters.

The France international has failed to truly win over Lilywhites fans since arriving from Newcastle United in a £30m deal 16 months ago.

Sissoko's performances in recent weeks have come under particular scrutiny, but Pochettino claims that the 28-year-old is key to Tottenham's hopes of landing some silverware.

"He has been one of our most important players," he told reporters at his pre-match press conference ahead of the FA Cup tie with Newport County.

"You have to give the credit to him because he is the only player who gives or provides balance in those transitions - offensive to defensive, defensive to offensive - in the team.

"There is no other player in the team who can provide that. This is the best quality he provides to the team. We create myths, me too, I am like you.

"Sometimes we all create myths but most of the times we are not clinical or honest in the way we assess things. Sometimes you think a way about someone because of first impressions and then they stick forever."

Sissoko has featured in all but one of Tottenham's top-flight games this season, playing a direct part in two goals.