Antonio Conte has told his post-match press conference – as per Football London – that he needs the Tottenham fans on Saturday when they take on Leeds United in the final game before the World Cup break, after criticism last week.
Spurs suffered another defeat on Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup third round, a woeful defeat to Nottingham Forest. Renan Lodi and Jesse Lingard goals saw Forest stun Spurs at the City Ground, Steve Cooper’s side impressive.
Conte fielded a strong side. One that included the likes of Harry Kane, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Eric Dier, Ivan Perisic and Yves Bissouma. But it was not enough as Tottenham’s strong start to the season ends, before the break, in poor form.
On the weekend, Spurs were booed by their fans at half-time as they trailed 2-0 to Liverpool. Conte said he was “disappointed” with the home crowd and now, ahead of this weekend against Leeds, he has a request for the fans.
“On Saturday, also our fans have to play a really good part. They have to push us from start to end. A win means that we finish a really tough period with important qualification in the Champions League and a good position in the table.”
Conte: Tottenham need fans when they take on Leeds
It is easy to see, and understand, why Spurs fans would be a bit dissatisfied at the moment. They have watched their side lose four of their last seven games. In all seven, Spurs have been incredibly disappointing in the first half.
It is becoming a trend that Spurs cannot seem to shake, struggling to get going. They managed to come back and score late winners against Bournemouth and Marseille, but it is an awful run of form for Spurs. Wednesday was awful.
Having criticised the fans for booing against Liverpool, Conte is now requesting they really get behind the team. Of course, Spurs fans – bar the minority – will still be Conte’s side. But a loss to Leeds, and there will be question marks.
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