Antonio Conte has told Tuesday’s press conference ahead of Tottenham’s clash against Brighton that Oliver Skipp is “frustrated”, as he tries to return from a groin injury. Conte says it is something he has never experienced.
Skipp, 21, was a key player under both Nuno Espirito Santo and Conte before suffering the muscle injury – which has since become infected. The Spurs academy product has now missed seven consecutive league games.
He will also be missing from Wednesday night’s outing against Brighton – a side Spurs beat 3-1 in the FA Cup earlier this year. Spurs are favourites to bounce back from their defeat to Manchester United and secure a victory.
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon as per Football London, Conte said that Skipp’s injury is something he has never experienced before. He also explained that the Englishman is feeling ‘frustrated’ as he bides his time.
“This is the first time I have had a situation where I don’t know. He’s a player we need, but at this moment no one tried to tell me the moment he is ready. He is really frustrated, he is young and a really good guy,” Conte said.
Conte on Skipp: Tottenham need hard-working ace back in midfield
Since Conte came in, Tottenham have won nine of 18 Premier League matches. Skipp has started six of the eight he has been available for – and in those six, Spurs have picked up 16 points from a possible 18.
In those six starts, Spurs have conceded just two goals – both against Leicester in a 3-2 win. In their last seven games, with Skipp sidelined with a groin issue, Spurs have nine points from a possible 21 – conceding 11.
Skipp is crucial. He might not be the most luxurious, eye-catching player – but he is pivotal to the way Conte wants to play.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
