It appears that Jose Mourinho has not lost his golden touch after all. But it is the personal touch that is going a long way towards galvanising a Tottenham squad who looked dead on their feet this time last year.
The Special One is getting a special reaction from his players thanks to individual text messages, wisecracks at the training ground and an encouraging arm round the shoulder.
The 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Saturday evening symbolised more than just three points. It was a statement as Spurs — and Mourinho — moved to the summit of English football for the first time in six years.