Antonio Conte enjoying time at Spurs and plays down talk of a Juventus return

Antonio Conte has played down talk linking him with a return to Juventus and insisted he is enjoying life at Tottenham.

Massimiliano Allegri’s poor start to the new season with Juventus, where they have lost three of their last five games, has sparked speculation the Serie A club could make a managerial change.

Conte enjoyed great success in Turin as a player and manager, winning three consecutive league titles during a trophy-laden spell in charge, but was quick to pour cold water on speculation he could return to Italy.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s trip to rivals Arsenal, the 53-year-old said: “I think this is disrespectful for the Juventus coach and disrespectful for me working for Tottenham.

“We’ve just started the season. Many times I spoke about this topic and I always said I’m happy and enjoying my time with Tottenham. Then we have the whole season to find the best solution for the club and for me.

“For sure, I’m enjoying the time working for Tottenham, to work for Tottenham, with these players. I have a great relationship with the owner and (Fabio) Paratici. I don’t see a problem for the future.

“Now it’s important to be focused. We signed a contract because both parties agree to sign this contract. I don’t see a problem in this moment and I don’t want in the future to listen to someone speak about this because it’s disrespectful to the other coach and to me.”

The Spurs boss also expressed his disappointment at having to speak about a racist incident which involved Richarlison on international duty.

Richarlison scored in Brazil’s 5-1 win over Tunisia on Tuesday at the Parc des Princes but had a banana thrown in his direction while he celebrated his 19th-minute effort.

“Richy played with the national team, scored