Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur are currently battling a coronavirus crisis with as many as 13 personnel being tested positive so far. Manager Antonio Conte admitted that he is scared of the ongoing situation and is uncertain about how the situation will impact their upcoming games.
Out of the 13 positive test results, eight are from the squad while the other 5 are from the coaching staff. The outbreak comes ahead of their must-win UEFA Europa Conference League group stage clash against Rennes.
As per the UEFA guidelines, the match will go ahead of the club has 13 eligible players to field. Conte, however, feels that playing the game is an unnecessary risk given how volatile the situation is. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the game, the Italian manager said:
“The situation makes me very upset because the situation is serious, It’s contagious and there is a big infection. Now we are a bit scared because tomorrow we don’t know what will happen.”
“Everyone is a bit scared. People have families. Why do we have to take the risk? This is my question. Today, two positives. And tomorrow, who? Me? I don’t know. Better me than a player for sure. But I think it’s not right for everyone. We have contact with our families.”
There is a possibility that the Premier League will postpone Tottenham’s next Premier League clash against Brighton on Sunday. Players who have contracted the virus will have to complete a 10-day isolation period. Reports also suggest that several have been shocked with the pace with which the virus has spread across the squad and its extended members.
Tottenham have just started to gain some momentum with Conte in charge. The Italian manager has brought his trademark 3 at the back system which has instilled defensive discipline in their recent matches. The London outfit are unbeaten in 4 Premier League matches under Antonio Conte and have only conceded a solitary goal.
Tottenham are currently fifth in the points table with a game in hand and can claim the fourth spot if they win their next match. The upcoming period will be crucial with a run of tricky fixtures during the Christmas period and a heavy transfer window expected as well in January.
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