‘A little problem’: Conte hints ‘world-class’ Tottenham player won’t be involved v Chelsea

Sat 13 August 2022 7:15, UK

Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte has hinted that he won’t be playing Clement Lenglet against Chelsea.

The Spurs manager says Lenglet has an adductor issue and, while it’s “nothing serious”, he won’t risk him.

Lenglet joined Tottenham on loan from Barcelona and made his debut off the bench against Southampton.

Spurs ran out 4-1 winners in that game and will be hoping to make it two in a row when they face Chelsea.

Conte, speaking at his pre-match press conference, said just two players would be out – Lenglet and Oliver Skipp.

The midfielder suffered a hairline fracture in his heel in pre-season that has since kept him on the sidelines.

“About my injuries, a little problem with Clement Lenglet,” quotes Conte as saying.

“I don’t think he is available for the game against Chelsea or for sure the next game against Wolverhampton (Wanderers).

“He had a little problem, and then Skipp needs a couple of weeks before being available. All the other players are good.”

Pressed on Lenglet’s issue, Conte added: “It’s a little problem of fatigue and he’s a bit tired in his adductor.

“Nothing serious, only a precaution but it’s not good to take a stupid risk for one game.”

Lenglet will hope to kickstart his career after falling out of favour at Barca.

Didier Deschamps has previously lauded the France international, deeming him ““.

Once fully up and running, Lenglet will provide essential cover at the back for Conte.

In the meantime, Ben Davies will likely continue on the left side of the back three.

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