Some old quotes from Mauricio Pochettino recently re-emerged, quotes that are extremely pertinent given that the Argentine coach is, according to The Athletic, is viewed as a credible option to take over at Arsenal now that the Gunners have dispensed with Unai Emery.

“I am never going to be manager of Barcelona or Arsenal because I am so identified with Tottenham and Espanyol,” Pochettino explained via a press conference halfway through his five-year tenure in North London. “That is my decision because I prefer to work on my farm in Argentina than in some places.”

That’s case closed then surely? Since the 47-year-old was sacked by Spurs following a series of uninspiring performances and disappointing results every man and his dog have rightfully praised his managerial credentials and achievements in the Premier League - but always with the caveat that Tottenham didn’t win a single trophy during his spell in charge.

Here however, concerning the man’s character there are no caveats and it requires little specialist deduction to know – regardless of club affiliation colouring our opinion - that Pochettino is someone of integrity. When he gives his word he keeps to his word.

Yet the headline in the link above states ‘Pochettino will be tempted by Arsenal job’ while elsewhere in the media Harry Redknapp asks in all innocence: “Why shouldn’t he go to Arsenal if he wants to?”

https://www.dailymotion.com/embed/video/x7kxxll

It is a sentiment shared by his pundit son Jamie – “I’d go for Mauricio Pochettino in a heartbeat” – while weighing in too this week David Seaman – a Gunners legend no less – suggested that should the counsel of the Emirates dressing room be sought many would vote for a figure who so recently will have been viewed as a nemesis. “The name that I keep going back to now is Poch,” the former England keeper said. “If you asked the players if they would take him now I bet you a good 90% of them would say yes.”

What is most striking about all of the above is that usually in such circumstances the discussions that surround a manager possibly taking on a new job equates to will-he-won’t-he. That is not primarily the case in this instance. With Poch to Arsenal it is can-he-can’t-he.

And the very simple answer is yes, yes he can. Because the moral framework in which we as punters live by – no matter our age, gender, or occupation – is very different to the one that guides those who inhabit the world of football. This has always been the way and explains why Campbell was able to move from one rival to another at the turn of the century, following in the footsteps of Pat Jennings before him and Terry Neil in the dug-out in between.

Whereas we bleed red or blue or green and invest a lifetime’s allegiance to a cause for them – professionals let’s not forget - our sacred love is an employer first and foremost.

That is not to suggest for a moment that Mauricio Pochettino doesn’t have genuinely strong feelings towards Spurs. And that is certainly not to intimate he has a lesser morality than you or I. But his five years at the club still amount to a position held; a meaningful secondment in a career full of them.

Furthermore, he has no requirement to show loyalty to Tottenham after they showed precisely none to him. After moulding a floundering giant into shape and taking them to the precipice of glory; after instilling pride and excellence into the very fabric of the club how did they repay him when things went awry? By giving him the boot then replacing him – less than 24 hours later – with a managerial peer who has recently endured exactly the same trials and tribulations Pochettino was going through. Frankly, loyalty cuts both ways and if it doesn’t that often leaves one party as the stooge. This renders integrity redundant.

As for the Gunners they would be remiss in the extreme if Pochettino is not high on their wanted list. After all, he is the individual most responsible for tilting the power and bragging rights in north London from the Emirates to a neighbour who routinely played second fiddle. He is a master team-builder and more so one who encourages youth to develop within the first team. He is an advocate of attractive, committed football. He is perfect for them.

Will Pochettino go back on comments he made several years ago and take the reins of a former rival? Only time will tell. But can he? Should he? Absolutely.