London — Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte is set for another spell away from the touchline to recover from gallbladder surgery.
The Italian has remained in his homeland after taking charge of Spurs' 1-0 defeat to AC Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Conte had returned to the bench for Saturday's 4-1 defeat at Leicester City after undergoing surgery on 1 February.
"Following a routine post-operation check in Italy yesterday, Antonio Conte will remain at his family home to further and fully recover from his recent gallbladder surgery," a Tottenham statement said on Thursday.
"Health is the most important consideration and everyone at the club wishes him well. Cristian Stellini will assume first-team responsibility."
Assistant boss Stellini took charge of a 1-0 win over Manchester City earlier this month with Conte providing input from Italy.
Spurs, who sit fifth in the Premier League, host West Ham United in a London derby on Sunday.
AFP