Antonio Conte keen to test Spurs against 'monster' Manchester United

Tottenham manager Antonio Conte believes Manchester United remain a "monster" in world football, but is excited to see his team test themselves at Old Trafford tonight.

The Italian has repeatedly talked up the spending power of Erik ten Hag’s side during the opening months of the season, especially in reference to Spurs’ own ability in the transfer market.

Despite Tottenham enjoying their best start to a campaign in 59 years, Conte has been keen to play down talk of a title bid but knows victory away to one of the top six in midweek would mark a step forward for his players.

"United for the present and the future will always be a monster that you have to go to fight. They have big, big potential from an economic aspect," he said.

"On Wednesday, it will be another important game. I think, compared to last season, we have improved in many aspects.

"But when you go to play against United, especially at Old Trafford, it will be a difficult game. At the same time I enjoy the fact that this test is coming now. We need to understand very well what are our ambitions and to continue to try to get good results."

Conte revealed he was pursued by Alex Ferguson during his playing days but wanted to stay and finish his career at Juventus.

United regularly won Premier League titles at that stage but have not tasted success in England’s top flight since 2013.

The 53-year-old believes "big mistakes" are behind them falling adrift of Manchester City and Liverpool in the past decade.

He added: "To play at Old Trafford is not simple, not easy. It’s not a good place for the opponent. There is a fantastic atmosphere, but at the same time it’s a big theatre, you have to go there and play with personality, play your football, your ideas.

"This period is