PSG stars prepare for Montpellier without new boss Pochettino
Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino will miss Friday night's game against Montpellier as he continues his recovery from the coronavirus.
The 48-year-old Argentine contracted the disease last week just before PSG's match at Angers.
Assistant coach Jesus Perez took charge of the side for the game at the Stade Raymond Kopa and oversaw a 1-0 win which allowed them to go top of Ligue 1.
Perez said Pochettino was making steady progress. "Every person who is suffering or has suffered the virus needs to be worried.
"In Mauricio's case, he has all the medical staff support and that's helping him to be in perfect health condition. He is in good spirit and he is not having problems."
Perez will also be in command for tonight's match at the Parc des Princes. Victory would give PSG a three point cushion over Lille who play on Sunday afternoon at fifth-placed Rennes.
Miss
"What we miss is Mauricio's aura," said Perez on the eve of the clash. "His impact during the game is paramount. He's a leader who makes sure the strategy is being implemented."
In the four games since replacing Thomas Tuchel as coach of the billion euro squad, Pochettino has steered the side to three wins and a draw.
On 13 January, they beat Marseille 2-1 to lift the Trophee des Champions - the French Super Cup.
A draw and two wins in Ligue 1 have edged them ahead of Lille on goal difference while Lyon have dropped to third on 40 points - two points off the pacesetters.