Anthony Martial scored a dramatic late winner to ensure Manchester United close the gap on Manchester City to just two points at the summit.
The game at Old Trafford was a damp squib, with the Red Devils and Spurs both guilty of producing insipid displays.
But Souness thinks credit must go to Mourinho for bringing on Martial, who now has six goals for the campaign.
“It wasn’t a great game – but it was a hard fought victory,” he said after the game.
“Spurs were good at times but they had no end product. United showed a reliance today.

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“You need to give them great credit.”
Redknapp was also full of praise for Martial.
“Martial was the difference. He affects games,” he added.
“He must be thinking why isn’t he starting every week.”
Meanwhile, United boss Jose Mourinho was delighted after the win.
“That was difficult, it could have been a draw. Both teams were trying to win but both knew the opponent was strong.
“Apart from Dele Alli’s chance, we controlled them well. It was tactically difficult for both and it was well refereed. It was strong, aggressive.
“We knew if we had one defensive mistake we could lose and that’s what happened to them.
“We tried and we deserved the victory.”