Conte explains why he kicked a load of water bottles in the dugout this week

Antonio Conte has assured that his frustration on the touchline during Tottenham’s defeat to Southampton were simply because of his emotional investment in the game. 

Spurs suffered a 3-2 defeat at home to the Saints on Wednesday, in what could be a crucial result that can be looked back upon in the top four race at the end of the season. 

Conte’s side led twice on the night but ended up conceding two quick goals late into the second half to see the Italian’s unbeaten home record in the Premier League as Spurs head coach come to end. 

Upon seeing his side squander a late lead, the Italian’s frustrations boiled over in the dugout when he kicked over a collection of water bottles (BBC Sport). 

But the 52-year-old has explained his reaction was normal and simply a matter of wanting his side to gain the best result possible. 

Conte said (via Football.London): “It [kicking over water bottles] wouldn’t be the first time. It has happened many times in the past.

“I think our job brings not just myself but all the coaches, a lot of stress. To stay at this level you have to manage with stress every day. I think this is normal for us and if you don’t want to stress then I think this job is not good for you.

“You have to stay in your house and stay in bed and stay calm eating good tea with biscuits. It’s not my job this. I like to have adrenaline. I find the competition gives me great emotion.

“People have to be worried if I stay calm, because if I stay calm it means maybe I accept the situation.

“It means you accept the situation and you don’t want to fight. ‘Rassegnato’ is the Italian word (resigned to an unpleasant fate) – you don’t want to fight and change the situation.”

Spurs Web Opinion 

Conte is one of the world’s most charismatic managers and isn’t afraid of letting his feelings and emotions out during matches. Wednesday night was a challenging one overall against Southampton with the performance not up to standard, so it was clear why he was so frustrated seeing two leads blown. 

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