"I think he was training really, really hard to keep fit and improve in different areas," the Argentinian said.

"We are happy (that) in the last few weeks he was unbelievable in the way he was available to train and compete in every single training session and I hope it's going to help the team from now.

"I think it was a good opportunity for him to build his fitness and have a proper pre-season, which sometimes when you're involved in competition is difficult.

"For him, looking at last season, which was really, really complicated for him and difficult, we used that situation and tried to be positive in helping him to get really fit to help him and the team because the pre-season is so important for every player.

"But sometimes the priority is holidays and, this type of situation with him, it was clear that he was going to be suspended for two games, and the plan was to provide him with good quality training to improve in different areas and, when the moment (comes and) he is available to play, to be in the perfect condition."

Spurs will be favourites to hand down a third successive defeat to Newcastle, which would add further pressure on Steve Bruce.

But Pochettino insists it is too early to judge.

"It is only the beginning, the Premier League is so tough and is so difficult," he added. "I have a good relationship with Steve.

"We are going to play them, but it is only the beginning of the season. No one can be worried.

"We are in a process, nearly all of the clubs. Only Manchester City or Liverpool can say they keep all of the dynamic (from last season).

"The rest of the human people and clubs, we try to find our best dynamic to try and perform in that tough league. We all need time to get the reward and perform in the way we want."