Having made more than 200 appearances in Sky Blue, both Sterling and Palmer enjoyed productive spells in Manchester before moving to Stamford Bridge for the next chapter in their careers.

Beginning with Sterling, Pochettino says the England international's experience has been crucial this season, and that he has aided the younger players at Chelsea on their own footballing journeys.

‘I think [Raheem] is doing really well,’ Pochettino said. ‘I am not going to compare [to last season] but I think this season he is doing really well for the team.

'The good thing is whether he plays or doesn’t play, he is always positive and helpful. That is the most important thing for an experienced player like him given this project where we have young players.

‘He is adding to the team goals and good performance, but also helping when he needs to wait, such as in the last two games.’

On Palmer, the boss admits he has been surprised by how quickly the 21-year-old has settled at Stamford Bridge following his late arrival in the summer transfer window.

‘Everyone told us [Cole] was an amazing player with the potential to be top,’ Pochettino continued.

‘But like all young players, there is a question mark about how they arrive and adapt to a new team and new environment. I have to be honest, he surprised everyone.

‘Always when you sign a player, you expect something, but perhaps not so quickly. After two weeks, he was playing like an experienced player here.

‘I don’t believe [they] have to prove anything. I think they are both grateful for the period that they were there and always they talk very highly about the coaching staff and Pep Guardiola. Raheem and Cole both talk very highly about Manchester City.’

When quizzed on whether the duo should celebrate if they score on their returns to Manchester, Pochettino pointed to the reverse fixture where both etched their names onto the score sheet, whilst also stressing the importance of enjoying football.

‘When you score, it’s the most beautiful feeling,’ he added. ‘It’s hard to keep that in your body and not celebrate when you play for a different team.

'You showed respect when you were there, you gave everything to the club, the badge and the people. But when you defend another badge, you need to celebrate because you are part of another history.’