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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham players back Antonio Conte exit decision

Dejan Kulusevski says the Tottenham squad back the club's decision to part ways with Antonio Conte, but insists he will miss working with the passionate Italian.

The young Swede was one of Conte's first signings as Spurs manager and enjoyed a stunning start to life under the manager, with five goals and eight assists in 18 games last season.

This season has been far tougher for all involved, though, and Conte's shocking tirade at his players, questioning their desire and motivations after a draw at Southampton, has seen him leave the club, with his assistant Cristian Stellini remaining in charge for the run-in.

Standard Sport understands the Spurs squad are pleased with the prospect of never having to work with Conte again, having grown tired of repetitive training sessions, deflecting the blame for results onto them in public and further frustrations.

Asked for his thoughts on Conte's exit, Kulusevski told Fotbollskanalen: “It’s not me who decides. Whoever is the coach, we players will always accept and play for him and for everyone else.

"Now the club made this decision because they think it is the best and we players stand behind that."

He said: "Always sad when a person you work with and have grown close to has to leave. But life goes on and you just have to move on. We have 10 games left now and we have to do our best to reach the top four.

"He has been very important. I have learned a lot from him and I will always remember him, but right now we have his assistant who I know very well. Then we’ll see who comes in next season, but I enjoy the city and the club very much."

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