Paulinho: Will not be returning to Brazil

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino says there is 'no chance' of Paulinho rejoining former employers Corinthians on loan.

It had been suggested that the Brazil international would be allowed to return home after struggling for game time at White Hart Lane.

Having slipped down the midfield pecking order in north London, Paulinho is yet to make a Premier League start this season.

The club that sold him to Spurs in 2013 are now reported to be keen on taking him back.

Pochettino, though, is reluctant to part with the 26-year-old.

He says there remains a role for Paulinho in England and that his late return to pre-season following World Cup duty is the only reason he has not been used more frequently.

Pochettino told ESPN Brasil when asked about a possible loan deal: “No, no Tottenham player, including Paulinho, will be loaned to Brazil. There is no chance.

“Paulinho arrived late, one of the last players to join the squad after the World Cup.

“There isn’t any problem. He is training and doing well, it’s just a technical decision.”