Antonio Conte to stay in Italy to recover from recent surgery

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed Cristian Stellini will take over first team duties after Antonio Conte opted to stay in Italy following a post-operation check.

The Spurs manager recently underwent gallbladder surgery and was back on the touchline earlier than expected, taking the reins for both the game against Leicester City at the weekend and against AC Milan in midweek.

However, after a routine post-surgery check-up in Italy after the defeat to Milan at San Siro, a decision has been made for Conte to stay at home while Stellini takes over matchday duties.

A statement from the club reads: “Following a routine post-operation check in Italy yesterday, Antonio Conte will remain at his family home to recover from his recent surgery.

“Health is the most important consideration and everyone at the Club wishes him well. Cristian Stellini will assume First Team duties.”

A timeline for Conte’s return to England has not been outlined, so one can expect Stellini to at the very least be in charge for the Lilywhites’ London derby clash with West Ham in the Premier League.