Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino coy on Tottenham's title hopes after victory over Sunderland

Spurs ran out 4-1 winners over Sunderland at White Hart Lane

Patrick van Aanholt gave the Black Cats a first-half lead after soaking up a constant stream of Spurs pressure.

But the lead lasted all of 90 seconds, with Lee Cattermole unable to prevent Christian Eriksen's shot going in.

Spurs then took control of the game after the break through Mousa Dembele's low finish into the corner before Eriksen added his second and Harry Kane converted from the spot.

Victory leaves Spurs in fourth place, and very much in the race for the Premier League title.

But Pochettino was remaining coy over his side's chances.

"I am very happy, it was very important to take the three points after the Leicester defeat," said Pochettino.

"But I think it is early to speak about the title.

"We need to improve a lot and learn a lot, we are a young squad and in football the situation can change quickly.

"We are in a good position and it is a realistic situation but we need to work hard to win the next game, it is step by step.

"We responded in the right way and that is encouraging, we are strong in our mentality.

"We need to be stronger though, a winning philosophy is not easy.

"After 18-months it is fantastic that we are here."

When pressed on when he would consider them realistic title contenders, Pochettino added: "When you have eight, nine or 10 games left, then it is realistic to talk about the objectives."

Spurs' star performer was Eriksen, who had the better of the Sunderland defence throughout the game, scoring twice in an all-round impressive display.

"Christian is very important, one of our best," added Pochettino.

"He is very talented and it was important for him to get the goals and the team are very happy for him."

Sunderland assistant manager Paul Bracewell, though, believes Spurs will be competing come the end of the campaign.

"Tottenham are a good side and we knew we were in for a tough ride," added Bracewell.

"In the end they were worthy winners and sometimes you have to hold your hands up and say they deserved it.

"They will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season though.

"It will be a tough second half to the season for us but we are confident we will get enough results."