Tottenham manager Antonio Conte is close to returning fully to work but will not be available for the game against Chelsea on Sunday.
Antonio Conte is currently in Italy recovering from gallbladder surgery following doctors' orders last week for him to rest, having rushed his return to first-team duties.
Assistant manager, Cristian Stellini was in charge of the team for last weekend’s win over West Ham and has been in regular contact with Conte.
Although it is believed Conte would have loved to remain in London seeing to the day-to-day activities of the club, training, and preparing for games, he is not expected to be present for the visit of Chelsea on Sunday.
Too soon for Conte's return
Speaking on the possibility of Conte being available for the Chelsea game, Stellini said:
“We don’t know yet but my feeling is that he’s very close to coming back.
“No, I don’t think he will be available for Chelsea, It is not the moment, but he is very close because I feel also his energy. We have a call three times a day, also in the evenings so absolutely I feel Antonio like he is here.
“We speak a lot and, if we compare when Antonio had the surgery three weeks ago to now, it is completely different. He is completely involved. We transfer to him our feeling, this sensation we have on the players.
“He can watch also the training so the energy is coming again 100 percent.
“I am looking forward to having him back and when he would be back I think the impact of Antonio will be incredible.”
With three wins already under his belt, Stellini continues to impress in Conte's absence and a victory against Chelsea this weekend would send Spurs 14 points clear of their London rivals.
Related content
15:55 - 24.02.2023
PREMIER LEAGUE Onuachu gets permanent manager as Southampton confirm Ruben Selles appointment
Relegation-threatened Southampton have now confirmed Ruben Selles will take charge of the club until the end of the season.
14:11 - 23.02.2023
UCL Champions League last-16 Power Rankings— Real Madrid lead the way as Manchester City disappoint
Real Madrid remain on course for another title defence but the Premier League champions are struggling in Europe once again.
22:37 - 22.02.2023
PREMIER LEAGUE Tottenham legend praises Osimhen, ex-Chelsea star wants him at Stamford Bridge
The Nigerian striker continues to receive plaudits following his impressive performances for Napoli this season.
12:45 - 23.02.2023
PREMIER LEAGUE Thierry Henry reveals Lukaku has no interest in returning to Chelsea
Legendary Arsenal striker and former Belgium assistant manager Thierry Henry has revealed that Romelu Lukaku is not interested in a return to Chelsea when his loan spell at Internazionale ends.