LONDON • Mauricio Pochettino urged his Tottenham Hotspur stars to keep their feet on the ground as they head into the new year firmly in the Premier League title race.

Not since 1961 have Tottenham won the league, but their gritty 2-1 win over 10-man Watford on Monday was another clear indication this could yet be their season in the topsy-turvy Premier League.

They lie in third place but, while Pochettino knows silverware is for the taking, the Tottenham manager refuses to get distracted by talk of a title charge.

"I think that the numbers reflect that it (title push) is possible but the only important thing for us is to try to keep inside our thoughts, try to win every game and keep working hard," he said.

"We have the youngest squad in the Premier League. But to speak about the title, it's more important to keep working hard and showing our maturity.

"The most important thing is that we have smart players who are always looking to improve. We must be proud of our players.

"It's very important to keep our feet on the ground. This is the key. We have to work hard and behave in the same way that we started in the league six months ago.

Tottenham continued their march to the top thanks to substitute South Korea forward Son Heung Min's 89th-minute winner.

Spurs had led via Erik Lamela before Watford striker Odion Ighalo struck in the first half for his sixth goal in as many games.

Watford saw Nathan Ake red-carded for a high challenge before Son won it right at the end.

Hornets manager Quique Sanchez Flores said: "I'm proud of my players as they fight a lot and have a big soul and amazing spirit.

"The feeling for us is sad as we are close to a point but I'm proud of my players. They tried to solve every situation.

"I support Nathan as he's a fair player who plays in a good way. He doesn't need to apologise. We move on and it's been a fantastic start for us."

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE