Stellini confirms Conte to be back on Tottenham bench next week

Tottenham head coach Antonio Conte has had his gallbladder removed, which has left him unable to attend Spurs games in recent weeks. In his absence, his assistant, Cristian Stellini, has taken over managerial duties.

Stellini has done an excellent job for the most part, including leading

to a 2-0 victory over Chelsea on Sunday.

Stellini told BBC Sport:

"Our desire was to win, play a great game and to fight for every ball. We are happy for the fans, the club and, of course, for us and Antonio, who is still at home.

"My expectation is that Antonio will be back next week."

Goals from

right after the second half’s start, as well as a 82nd-minute strike from Harry Kane sealed the win for Spurs. Stellini lauded the performance of Skipp in particular, saying:

"Brilliant moment Skipp and one that we expected for one year because it has been one year he stayed far from the pitch.

"Last season with physical problems and this year for tactical decisions. He is ready because he has trained a lot and pushed himself. He is an amazing guy and great player.

"A player like Skippy has to understand that if he trains a lot he will have possibilities to show his value."

Tottenham captain Harry Kane scored his 20th goal of the season in all competition, making him and Robert Lewandowski the only players in Europe to have scored 20+ goals each season for the past 9 years.

The Spurs skipper said:

"Chelsea have been a difficult opponent for us over the last few years.

"So it's a really important win to keep us around fourth. Overall I thought we deserved the win.

"First half both teams created a few half chances. We struggled with our pressure a bit and sorted that out second half.

"I think we just showed a bit more quality in the final third and whenever you break the deadlock it helps open the game up. Another clean sheet, two goals, so overall a good home performance."

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