Tottenham academy boss Chris Powell has revealed the eyes-on approach of Jose Mourinho, as the legendary manager bids to unearth the stars of tomorrow.
Mourinho is enjoying a blistering season so far with Spurs, as his side sit proudly at the top of the Premier League after 10 matches.
But Powell, who joined Tottenham as head of coaching in August, says the the 'very personable' Mourinho is always in an around the academy set-up taking a keen interest in Spurs' emerging stars.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with the Gary Newbon Sports Show with Utilita, Powell said: 'I'm on the academy side but we do see the boss, he does come and watch the games, he's very personable and clever.
'He takes a real interest in what we're doing in the academy and I'm sure people have seen recently he gave three academy boys their debuts, they all came on at the same time in a Europa League game, so that was a very proud moment for all the coaches and staff who have helped those players.'
Mourinho placed his faith in the academy by bringing on Alfie Whiteman, Harvey White and Dane Scarlett against Bulgarian outfit Ludogorets in the Europa League, during a resounding 4-0 victory.
Scarlett, aged 16 and 247 days, became the youngest player to feature for the club when he replaced Moura in the 82nd minute, beating John Bostock's previous record set in 2008.
After the match, Mourinho told BT Sport: '[It was a]Nice opportunity for kids to get into the club history and to make their own history. 4-0, three points, all good.
'I know them (the kids) well. Harvey (White) works with us everyday now in our squad.
'The same with Jack Clarke. Scarlett did pre-season with us and played pre-season matches so we know what they can do but it has to be at the right moment with the right pressure. Today was the right kind of game.'
Giving further insight into his new role at Spurs, Powell told Gary Newbon: 'Obviously I've managed and been assistant manager but I'm in a new role now where I'm trying to help young players forge careers in the game, to try and get them out on loan and develop.
'The best example of that is Harry Kane, he went out and did loans to find his feet here before making his name, Harry Winks is the same.'
Source: m.allfootballapp.com