Harry Redknapp has told talkSPORT that he fears Antonio Conte will ‘get disillusioned’ very quickly unless Tottenham Hotspur can show clear signs the club is progressing this season.
Spurs moved to hire Conte in November to replace Nuno Espirito Santo following a dire run under the Portuguese. He lasted just four-months in charge, in which the north Londoners won nine of 17 matches in all competitions. They also won just five Premier League games.
Conte’s Tottenham tenure started promisingly with seven wins and three draws in his first 11 fixtures in all competitions. However, they have only won three of their following eight, while losing their last three top-flight matches resulting in a slump to eighth in the table.
Yet Spurs remain in the mix for Champions League qualification this term via their games in hand. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium side have played three fewer times than West Ham, who sit five-points better off in fourth. Manchester United in fifth have played two more.
Redknapp fears Tottenham chances of keeping Conte at the club
Tottenham’s latest defeat at home to Wolves on Sunday left Conte accepting they face a ‘long road’ ahead and stating: ‘There are many aspects to improve’, via the Independent.
He also urged Chairman Daniel Levy Spurs ‘need to do something’ in the January transfer window, via 90min. They responded by securing deadline day deals for Dejan Kulusevski – who is yet to start a league game – and Rodrigo Bentancur – who started against Wolves.
Redknapp, though, fears Tottenham’s ongoing plight will put pressure on the club’s ability to keep Conte past the current season. As either the club improves, or the coach will walk.
“I do get the feeling with him that he’s not going to stick around if he sees this is not going to go well,” Redknapp said. “It’s not what he’s been used to, he’s always managed top clubs with top players.
“I don’t think he will stick around if he doesn’t see a bit of progression there and a chance to be up there looking to win something. I think he’ll get disillusioned very quickly.”
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