‘Totally changed’: Antonio Conte says he’s noticed something is very different about Tottenham now

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Antonio Conte says the perception of Tottenham Hotspur has completely changed during his reign as manager.

Conte was speaking at his press conference ahead of the Champions League clash with Sporting, where Spurs could seal qualification.

Spurs have had two recent defeats to Manchester United and Newcastle, and they need a response tonight in a huge game.

But Conte was keen to point out the progress made since he took over from Nuno Espirito Santo in November 2021 as he approaches a year in charge.

Conte on Tottenham perception

He said: “The perception about Tottenham has totally changed in 11 months.

“It means we did so well that the people have changed their mind about our consideration.

“If you remember, in November the club decided to change their coach and the position was ninth, we were playing the Conference League.

“Now we finish in the Champions League. This season the table has improved, and we have an opportunity to go to the next round.

“We have to enjoy and don’t be presumptuous and forget the past and forget the point in November.

“If we understand and remember this, we find again all together the strength to go ahead and become really difficult.”

It is true that Conte has changed the outlook at Tottenham in a short space of time, after inheriting a season of drift under Nuno.

The next step is competing far better in those big away games where Spurs have meekly surrendered to Arsenal and Manchester United this season.

If Conte can get Spurs into the knockout rounds of the Champions League within a year in charge, you have to say that is a job very well done from where the club was when he came in.

That is why tonight’s game is so big, up against a Sporting side who beat them 2-0 in the reverse fixture and are exciting and slick in possession.