Tottenham head coach Antonio Conte is set to remain in Italy after his gallbladder surgery with assistant Chrisitan Sitellini taking charge in his absence.There are still many games to play, the Champions League and Europa League are on the horizon, and probably most importantly, we could have been here a few weeks ago eight or nine points adrift, and losing here [would effectively end the title chase]. Therefore, despite the fact that they scored, we came here for the chance to win the game, and we are now there [at the top of the league]. So far, they’ve outperformed us – that’s the truth.
“My tremendous sense of responsibility to the club, the players, the staff, and the fans motivated me to eagerly anticipate my return to the pitch. Regrettably, I underestimated the procedure, which was not a routine treatment but rather a life-threatening emergency. Because to my impatience, my body has suffered, and I am now forced to stop until I have fully recovered. Who knows me and understands how difficult this is for me, despite the fact that it is unavoidable? Spurs, step up!” Tottenham boss Antonio Conte said.
Conte’s assistant Stellini had advised him to “take it easy” upon his return, and the former Chelsea manager revealed he had not healed entirely in time for the midweek meeting in Milan. Stellini, who has won two games in charge of fifth-placed Spurs this season, will take over in the London derby against West Ham on Sunday.
“Following a routine post-op check yesterday (Wednesday), Antonio Conte will remain at his family home in Italy to thoroughly recover from his recent gallbladder operation,” the club said in a statement. “The most important consideration is his health, and everyone at the club wishes him well. Cristian Stellini will take over as first-team captain.”
Conte had been quiet by his usual high-octane standards during a humiliating defeat at Leicester, but he was more aggressive at San Siro, constantly bellowing orders to his team. Following the close Champions League last-16 first-leg loss, the 53-year-old even vowed he will be back to full fitness shortly.
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