Antonio Conte set to fix 14-year Tottenham ‘problem’ after player confession – ex-Spurs star
Alan Hutton has suggested Antonio Conte may have reinstilled a “winning mentality” at Tottenham following last weekend’s win against Burnley.
The former Spurs defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the Lilywhites have struggled psychologically ever since their League Cup win in 2008.
Speaking to the Evening Standard (16 May), Eric Dier confessed Conte has had a major “influence” on the squad’s mentality and insisted there is “so much more space” to improve.
As quoted by football.london (15 May), the Italian hailed his side’s “fight” following the 1-0 win over Burnley.
Hutton admitted Spurs’ “mentality” has been an issue since his time in north London.
However, he claimed Conte is on the way to solving that long-standing issue.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “It takes time to build that winning mentality. I mean, it’s been a problem for Tottenham for years, even since I was there.
“If you look back over the history of it, 2008 was their last trophy. It’s not been good enough for a squad of that calibre.
“It takes time to build that up. They can be difficult games, after such a high from the Arsenal game, to go and play Burnley. They’re fighting for their lives, they defended for their lives.
“It was an edgy game. There wasn’t much in it and, possibly, in previous seasons they might not have got the victory and gone to the very end. We’re seeing a difference in this squad now.
“I think he’s liking what he’s seen over the past few weeks.”
Tottenham sit fourth in the Premier League table with one game to play.
Barring a major swing in goal difference, a point against Norwich will guarantee Champions League football for next season.
In other news, Tottenham set to seal ‘bargain’ double deal after journalist’s Dejan Kulusevski update.