Conte sends a heartfelt goodbye to Tottenham fans

Antonio Conte expressed gratitude towards the Tottenham fans, describing their support as "unforgettable", in his first statement since leaving the club.

He departed Spurs on Sunday by mutual consent, just a week after a post-match outburst following a 3-3 draw with Southampton. Tottenham had surrendered a two-goal lead in the latter stages of that game.

Antonio Conte's verbal attack on his players and the club's lack of trophies during Daniel Levy's tenure led to his departure from

by mutual consent. His tirade came after a 3-3 draw with Southampton, in which Spurs lost a two-goal lead in the latter stages of the game.

As a result, assistant manager Cristian Stellini has taken charge of the team for the remainder of the season, as Tottenham aim to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Antonio Conte took to Instagram on Monday to express his gratitude towards Tottenham and their fans, and also wished them luck for the future.

"Football is passion,"

Conte said.

 "I would like to deeply thank everyone at Spurs who appreciated and shared my passion and my intense way of living football as a coach.

"A special thought to the fans who always showed me support and appreciation, it's been unforgettable to hear them singing my name.

"Our journey together has ended, I wish you all the best for the future."

Tottenham's next game will be against Everton at Goodison Park on April 3, following the departure of Antonio Conte. The club will be hoping to maintain their current fourth place position in the Premier League and secure qualification for the Champions League next season.

Follow 

 for the