Following Dele Alli’s appearance on Monday Night Football, Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino could not contain his joy at seeing the former Tottenham midfielder.

As he continues to heal from an injury that has prevented him from playing a single minute this season, Dele, who is currently at Everton, traded the field for the studio to analyze their trip to Chelsea. He has battled hip and groin issues since making his Besiktas loan debut in February 2023.

Dele had his first appearance in the media since his stirring Overlap interview with Gary Neville last year. Neville broke down in tears as he revealed his childhood trauma, the demands of being a professional football player, and his struggle with mental health.

But Dele got the chance to catch up with Pochettino in a pregame interview when he appeared on Monday Night Football with Jamie Carragher and David Jones. After four productive years together at Spurs, Pochettino grinned as he spoke with Dele via a studio link.

“Good evening, this is new for me, I was in my managers room watching your interview earlier,” Pochettino said on Sky Sports. “I need to talk now. I cannot see you but I want to say hello to Dele. What a player, oh my goodness, oh my goodness. It’s good to see you there and I am happy to see you.”

He said: “I’m doing well. I think when I did the interview I said it’s the best I’ve felt, at that time. Obviously coming out of rehab and getting ready to be back playing. It’s been tough but it’s a journey that I’m on but I’m enjoying it and I’m ready to get back now.”