Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui has told Friday’s press conference – as per his club’s website – that Tottenham manager Antonio Conte is one of the best in the world and hopes the Italian is back to start work again as soon as possible.
Conte, 53, has been missing from the sidelines in recent matches after undergoing surgery. He returned in the dugout for the 4-1 defeat to Leicester but it was too soon, and has since returned to Italy to recuperate with his family.
It is now expected that Cristian Stellini and Ryan Mason will take this weekend’s clash at Molineux. But, Conte will be returning to the dugout next week, when Spurs take on AC Milan in the second leg of their Champions League tie.
Asked about Conte, ex-Spain and Sevilla manager Lopetegui gave his verdict. He said he has always looked up to Conte and believes the Italian is one of the best in the game. He hopes for a quick return to the dugout, for Conte.
“We are people too. We have feelings, we have family, but this is normal. We have to accept this part of our job because I have the same problems as everyone, with family and with life. We are not robots. He’s an incredible coach.
“I have a big respect for him, as a coach and as a person too. He is one of the best coaches in the world and his career has always seen him at the top. I hope that he is ready, as soon as possible, to start work. This is the main thought.”
Lopetegui: Tottenham manager Conte one of the best in the world
Spurs really need a win. After two successive wins in the Premier League against Chelsea and West Ham, it looked as though Spurs were setting themselves for a strong second half to the current campaign. But then, the inevitable.
Stellini and Mason watched on as Spurs suffered a 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United in the FA Cup. A win at Molineux this weekend would solidify Tottenham’s place in fourth – while Newcastle face Man City, and Liverpool play Man United.
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