Speaking on the eve of Tottenham - AC Milan, a game valid for the second leg fixture of the Champions League round of 16, head coach Antonio Conte had these words to share with the media:
"Yesterday was a positive day, and my feelings were good too. You all know how important it is for me to work and be with my players and staff. I tried to do it from a distance, but it's completely different in person. I have to thank the entire staff because they did a great job, but also the players because three weeks without a coach is not easy. I'm ready: tomorrow we have a crucial match, and I hope to feel a great atmosphere. We will face the winner of the championship tomorrow, and it won't be easy
He added:
"I definitely underestimated the recovery after what I went through. Because of my sense of responsibility, I wanted to come back earlier. I overestimated my body, but now I feel good and have regained energy: I hope to transfer it to the players. We want to create a fantastic atmosphere tomorrow, and we want to qualify for the quarter-finals."
Conte continued:
"Now I feel like I have to be with the players and create an atmosphere at the sports center. Honestly, I wanted to come back after the game against Sheffield United (March 1), but the doctor stopped me. In this case, I had to respect the doctors, even those from Tottenham, because they were worried after the first leg against Milan."
