Antonio Conte could still return in time for Tottenham’s clash against Man City

Antonio Conte could still potentially return in time for Tottenham’s Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon.

The former Chelsea boss underwent an operation in Italy earlier this week after been diagnosed with cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder usually caused by gallstones.

The 53-year-old had been diagnosed after suffering from severe abdominal pain when he was spending time with his family in Turin, following Tottenham’s FA Cup win over Preston.

Spurs assistant manager Cristian Stellini has confirmed a decision on whether Conte will return in time for the match will be made tomorrow.

‘We don’t know yet when he is coming back. The surgery was good. He’s recovering well at home [in Italy]. We have two days before the game and anything can happen,’ Stellini told the media in a pre-match press conference.

‘We don’t know yet. The decision will be made tomorrow. We are ready to do everything and Antonio probably the doctor who did the surgery they have to decide for him. We have 48 hours, two days to decide.’

The assistant has been in close contact with Conte throughout the week, as he has been overseeing the training sessions and preparation in north London ahead of the clash. 

Stellini also jokingly replied to a question about keeping Conte calm on his return, by saying: ‘I think nobody here can keep him calm. He knows obviously to have surgery and a surprise like he had on Sunday is not easy. 

‘He’s an intelligent man. He knows what happened. The surgery is not the worst but it’s still surgery. He knows he has to be careful.’

Conte also confirmed yesterday that surgery to remove his gallbladder has ‘gone well’ and said he ‘can’t wait’ to return.

In an Instagram message, Conte confirmed the surgery had gone well and thanked fans for their support. 

‘Thank you for your lovely messages, my surgery has gone well and I’m already feeling better,’ Conte wrote. ‘Now’s time to recover, I can’t wait to get back on the field with the team.’

Antonio Conte announced his gallbladder surgery had ‘gone well’ in a message to fans

The Tottenham boss is still considering his long-term future in north London after an emotional six months, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the campaign.

Conte has continually pledged his full commitment to Tottenham despite reports of interest elsewhere, and the manager will be desperate to fire his side into the top four upon his return from surgery.

Spurs sit three points behind Manchester United and have played an additional match in the league, which highlights the importance of Sunday’s clash with the champions.