Poch defends 'diving' Alli

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino leapt to the defence of Dele Alli after the midfielder was once again accused of diving in his side's 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Alli left the pitch to jeers following the win secured by Harry Kane's 89th minute header after going to ground easily under challenges from Patrick van Aanholt and Wayne Hennessey.

The England international had been accused of looking for a penalty in the FA Cup tie against Rochdale a week previously and has twice been booked for simulation this season.

But Pochettino defended his player and claimed Alli is an easy target for opposition fans.

"We need to stop saying too much about him to stop helping people, the fans, creating this reputation," said the Argentine.

"He's so competitive and played very well today but Dele is an easy target.

"Dele is such a special kid. He's going to play. He's going to show his quality. He won't worry what people are saying about him."

Palace manager Roy Hodgson also defended the player.

"The way our defenders defend the situation, he had to go down to avoid them," said Hodgson.