Photo: Conte puts arm around Sessegnon after subbing Tottenham player
On a day where Tottenham Hotspur missed another golden opportunity in the battle for the top four, Ryan Sessegnon will likely be more disappointed than most with how his afternoon played out.
Sessegnon was a surprise starter against Wolves. He was picked ahead of Sergio Reguilon following Spurs’ defeat to Southampton during the week.
It looked set to be a massive opportunity for the 21-year-old. Tottenham fans are still awaiting the moment where Sessegnon’s spell with the club really ignites.
Unfortunately, the wait continues following Sunday’s game. Wolves won 2-0 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. And Sessegnon was only on the pitch for less than half an hour.
With Spurs 2-0 down, Conte took the decision to replace Sessegnon with Dejan Kulusevski.
Sessegnon was on the opposite side of the pitch when his number came up. However, he decided to take the long way round as he made his way back to the bench.
As he got back to the dug-out however, Conte went out of his way to put his arm around Sessegnon. It certainly appeared to be decision not made because of anything the youngster had done.
Here is the moment Conte explained his decision to Sessegnon…
Sessegnon may have done little wrong, but decision still highlights problem he faces at Tottenham
Sessegnon did not shine while he was on the pitch against Wolves. But clearly, he was not the worst performer during his time out on the grass.
The way Conte approaches the situation suggests that he is reassuring the former Fulham man. And it may not be a performance that is held against him moving forward.
Having said that, the decision still alludes to the problem Sessegnon has at Tottenham. He was not seen as a player who could help get Spurs back into the game on Sunday.
He can play further forward. Sessegnon shone there while out on loan. So the decision to opt for Kulusevski instead may have made the call all the more difficult to stomach.
It is perhaps an ominous sign for his spell at Tottenham.
