According to a report by Corriere dello sport, Antonio Conte is not particularly fond of Emerson Royal.
The 23-year-old has started 11 out of 14 games in the Premier League for Tottenham Hotspur this season.
Initially, many felt that the Brazilian would kick on during his second campaign in North London.
However, this belief seems like a pipe dream at this point.
Spurs fans have made their feelings clear about Royal as well, with Jamie O’Hara describing him as “one of the worst right-backs” he has ever seen on talkSPORT.
And yet, Conte seems to have stuck by the much-maligned defender.
Conte is reportedly not a fan of Royal
In a report by Corriere dello sport that discusses the Lilywhites’ interest in Denzel Dumfries, it has been claimed that Antonio Conte is not the biggest admirer of Emerson Royal.
Upon hearing this revelation, several fans and pundits alike would be sceptical to say the least.
After all, the former Real Betis man has continued to remain first-choice, despite Djed Spence’s arrival in the summer.
While the likes of Ivan Perisic and Matt Doherty can also operate as right wing-backs, the Italian boss has stuck by the £25.8 million man (BBC Sport).
Conte’s feelings about Royal are understandable
While Antonio Conte seems to favour Emerson Royal, it’s safe to say that the latter has been appalling since joining Tottenham in 2021.
Going forward, Royal brings virtually nothing to the table.
And defensively, the Sao Paulo-born defender is no colossus, leaving little to no redeeming qualities about his game.
A signature feature of any Conte side is his marauding right-backs.
Perhaps the standout example remains Victor Moses, who was integral to the ex-Inter boss as he won the Premier League with Chelsea in 2017.
The same cannot be said for an Antonio Conte-led Tottenham side that features Emerson Royal.
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