Journalist reveals how some at Spurs feel about Conte’s comments on ‘weakened’ squad

PA Sport journalist Jonathan Veal has revealed that Antonio Conte’s recent comments about the Tottenham squad having been weakened in January has left those inside the club surprised.

Conte is now coming under a bit of pressure for the first time in his Spurs reign after the North Londoners fell to two back-to-back losses at home against Southampton and Wolves.

Following the defeats, the Tottenham head coach suggested that Spurs fans should readjust their expectations for the season, insisting that the team is not ready for a top-four challenge (Sky Sports).

He also added in a different interview that the Lilywhites have just a 1 per cent chance of qualifying for the Champions League (beIN Sports).

In an interview published on Sky Sport Italia on Thursday, Conte admitted that the Tottenham squad may have been ‘weakened’ by letting four ‘important’ players leave and bringing just two in.

The 52-year-old also added that while he understands Spurs’ philosophy of buying young players, experienced signings were necessary to close the gap with the best sides in the Premier League.

Here’s what Veal tweeted about the reactions from inside the club at Conte’s latest comments:

Spurs Web Opinion

Conte’s comments over the past week come across as the Italian going into self-preservation mode.

While Spurs fans accept that our squad is not anywhere close to the likes of City, Liverpool and Chelsea, we certainly have the players to beat both Southampton and Wolves.

I did not think we played particularly poorly in either game. It was just a few defensive lapses that cost us.

However, Conte’s comments about us having little to no chance of finishing fourth, make little sense considering that our squad is no worse than Arsenal’s or West Ham’s.

It sounds like the Italian is trying to absolve himself of pressure but like Veal pointed out, it is possible that some of his comments might have been lost in translation.

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