Report: What Conte and Tottenham staff did when player was jeered off on Saturday

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Football London reporter Alasdair Gold says Antonio Conte and his Tottenham coaching staff tried to cheer Emerson Royal up when he was replaced on 57 minutes against Leeds – as the Brazilian was jeered off by the home support.

Spurs went on to win 4-3 against Leeds, despite Jesse Marsch’s side taking the lead on three separate occasions. It was Rodrigo Bentancur that saved Spurs once again – scoring a late brace to win the game. Leeds finished with 10 men.

With the scoreline reading 2-2, Conte decided to replace Royal with Matt Doherty on 57 minutes. It comes after a poor display against Leeds – including a woeful finish from 12 yards, it was easier to score. An awful crossfield pass, too.

It was clear what Tottenham fans thought of the Brazil ace. It was not simply that Spurs fans were happy to see Doherty come on. But it was the jeers when the stadium announcer said it would be ex-Barcelona defender Emerson going off.

Gold reported that when Emerson reached the touchline, he was patted on the head by Conte and a number of his Spurs coaching staff following his exit from the game. Difficult time for Emerson, but his form has warranted it.

“An even bigger one came though on 57 minutes. A huge booming cheer came from the crowd as it was announced that Emerson would be coming off for Doherty,” Gold reported on Football London’s website on Sunday.

“It made for an uncomfortable watch. The Brazilian walked off amid the cheers and his manager, the coaching staff and many of his team-mates put their hands on his head as he trudged by.”

Conte and Tottenham staff tried to cheer Emerson Royal up

It is hard not to feel sympathy for Royal after he was taken off. But ultimately, Spurs fans watch the Nuno Espirito Santo signing on a regular basis and their frustration is also well-placed. He is not good enough to start for a side like Spurs.

If Tottenham are to maintain their place in the top four this season, they need to sign a new right wing-back. A player that can finally solve the issue they have. If they have to sell a few fringe players, so be it. It is holding them back.