Tottenham assistant coach Cristian Stellini has confirmed that Antonio Conte has been involved in the build-up to Spurs’ clash against West Ham.
Conte is currently in Italy recovering from gallbladder surgery but has had his say on the XI for the London derby.
Speaking to Sky Sports before the game, Stellini was open on Conte’s involvement with the coaching staff and his players.
The 48-year-old said: ‘He was completely involved in the preparation of the match’
‘We transferred to Antonio during the week all the sensations, all the feelings, are the players fit? We decide together about the squad and the preparation of the game.’
Spurs’ assistant coach was then asked if the Tottenham boss will be able to transfer any ideas to the team during the game.
Stellini said: ‘Not directly but we will have for sure some messages from Antonio… [He will be] involved to send us a message or something like this.’
The big talking point from Spurs’ starting line-up is the absence of Son Heung-min. Son has been a crucial player for Conte during his time at the club but has struggled for form during the current campaign.
On the decision to leave the 30-year-old forward out, Stellini said: ‘Me, Antonio [Conte] and Ryan Mason made this decision because we have a big squad.
‘Today we want to use energy, we played with Sonny [for] many games and maybe this could game be time out [for] Sonny during the match.’
However, the Tottenham coaches are still hoping Son can have an impact on the derby from the bench.
‘We hope every time that our player that comes in from the bench, changes the game and gives us what we need,’ added Stellini.
Tottenham have lost their last two games in all competitions and will be hoping to turn their form around with an important win against West Ham.