‘They have to make me happy’ – Conte on his right-wing-back options at Spurs

Antonio Conte has insisted that his right-wing-back options have to make him happy this season, rather than him trying to keep them content with their role. 

Spurs are currently overflowing with options on the right side, with Matt Doherty and Emerson Royal the remaining options from last season, now joined by Djed Spence and the newly-converted Lucas Moura.

All four have received minutes at right-wing-back throughout pre-season and it still remains unclear as to who will claim the starting berth against Southampton this weekend.

Conte has revealed that Doherty is patiently building his way back from injury, Emerson is fit and ready, while Djed Spence needs to understand the demands of the Premier League and Tottenham.

When asked if he can keep all of his right-backs happy, Conte flipped the question and insisted the players must keep him happy and convince him they are the best option.

Conte said (Football London): “Also for the right side (laughs) we have a similar situation like Ivan to Matthew. Matthew had a serious injury and I think worse than Ivan. Now he is working a lot. He has had a bit of time to come back to be fit like last season.

“I hope to bring him in the same situation as last season as I think Matthew, he played really well. At the moment we need to have a bit of patience. He needs to have a bit of patience but is working very well to be fit quickly.

“Then we have Spence. Spence, I said to you that he was an important investment for the club for the future, he is a really good prospect and young player.

For sure it is important for him to understand very well with us to adapt himself to the demands of Tottenham. With him, we have to work and have patience. The same for the player.

“Then there is Emerson. Emerson is fit. Yeah. This is about the wing-backs, the situation. I hope that I was clear to explain the situation.”

Asked if he can keep them all happy, he replied: “But they have to make me happy, no?! You understand? With performances, to bring me to think but who is the better player. You understand? They have to make me happy, no. Not me! Okay.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

I believe Matt Doherty will be the first choice at right-wing-back this season once he gets fully fit, with Djed Spence offering support. The one experienced head and one youngster is mirrored on the left with Perisic and Sessegnon too. My gut says Emerson may be sold.

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