Antonio Conte has told his post-match press conference – as per Football London – that he is “not pushing” Tottenham star Lucas Moura in Tottenham training in order to bring him back to his best physical condition, and avoid injury.
Lucas, 30, has returned from injury and come on as a substitute in Tottenham’s last two Premier League games. He got a couple of minutes in the 2-0 win over Everton, and then the best part of 10 minutes against Manchester United.
But he could do little about the result. Spurs were poor – and it is becoming a regular pattern that Antonio Conte’s tactics do not work against the top six. With Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison injured, having Lucas fit is paramount.
However, that is easier said than done. A few weeks ago, Lucas suffered a setback in his recovery. Conte spoke after the match on the Brazil international’s fitness. The Spurs boss says that they are managing the winger carefully in training.
“Lucas Moura is recovering from an injury with his tendon. We are trying to keep him in balance, in training, to bring him in the best physical condition, we are not pushing him. He took risks two weeks ago, stopping himself again.”
Conte not pushing Tottenham star Lucas in training
Tottenham need Lucas. That was proven last night. They need options from the bench but with both Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski sidelined, they lack options up top. Bryan Gil was on the bench, but he is yet to earn Conte’s trust.
Djed Spence and Ryan Sessegnon came off the bench at Old Trafford, but ultimately, Conte lacks the attacking options from the bench. He will be sure to mention it in his next meeting ahead of the January window to Daniel Levy.
While it is a disappointing result for Spurs, it could be a blessing in disguise. It could be the perfect evidence Conte needs to show Levy that more funding is required in the next window. To bring more attacking talent to Tottenham.
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