McAvennie issues emphatic Antonio Conte verdict as Tottenham controversy analysed
Frank McAvennie has defended Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel and Tottenham boss Antonio Conte after their bust-up on Sunday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former West Ham striker said incidents like that “can’t” be taken out of the game.
Both managers were booked in the second half after Spurs’ first goal.
The pair were shown red cards at full time after an extended handshake sparked a mass confrontation.
The Blues boss felt that neither of the Lilywhites’ goals should have been allowed due to fouls in the build-up.
The London derby finished 2-2 after a late goal from Harry Kane secured a point for the visiting side.
As reported by football.london (14 August), both managers will receive a one-game touchline ban.
When asked if the coaches set a bad example for their players, McAvennie told Football Insider: “God no, it’s a passion for the game.
“You can’t take that out the game. Sometimes things happen and you say the wrong thing but it’s in the heat of the moment. These guys are grown men.
“Managers getting fired up has been going on forever. I like that, it shows your players ‘the manager is fired up so why not us’.
“It was the type of game it was. People didn’t want to lose, they were fired up. Chelsea should have won and of course Tuchel was upset about it. But obviously Conte is going to be celebrating.“
In other news, an ex-Premier League referee has claimed Antonio Conte could be set for extended ban amid new Tottenham controversy.